Ways To Make Your Home Safer For Senior Citizens
As our population ages, we are seeing an increase in senior citizens. This means an increase in the number of people who may be susceptible to crime. In this blog post, we will explore some ways you can make your home safer for senior citizens. From installing security systems to utilizing home alarm monitoring, read on to learn everything you need to protect your loved ones from crime.
Install Bumpers On Doors and Windows
Doors and windows can offer your loved one protection from the elements, but they may not be as safe as you think. Bumpers can provide a barrier against injury or theft and make your home more comfortable for seniors. Here are four steps to installing bumpers on your doors and windows:
1. Measure the door or window opening.
Measure the width of the opening, then multiply that number by two to get the overall dimensions of the bumper. For example, if the width of an opening is 8 inches, use 16 inches (8 x 2) as the bumper’s dimensions.
2. Choose a sturdy bumper material.
Choose a bumper material that is strong and will resist damage from weather conditions or vandalism. Options include wood, metal, plastic, or fiberglass materials. Make sure to choose a bumper that will fit snugly into the opening so it does not wobble or move when opened or closed.
3. Cut out the bumper’s pattern with a jigsaw or sawmill.
Use a jigsaw or sawmill to cut out the desired shape of the bumper from your chosen material. Be sure to measure and cut around any hinges, knobs, or other hardware on your door or window before cutting out the bumper itself.
4. Assemble the bumper with screws, nails, and brackets.
Screw, nail, or bracket the bumper onto your door or window opening using its original screws, nails, or brackets (if applicable).
Put Up Screens on All Entryways
Adding screens on all entryways can help protect elderly residents from falls, as well as intruders. This is a simple and affordable way to make your home safer for seniors.
Have a Security System Installed
A security system is one of the simplest and most effective ways to make your home safer for senior citizens. A security system can help keep your elderly loved ones safe from harm by detecting and responding to intrusions, such as burglars or predators. There are a variety of different types of security systems available, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your needs.
One popular type of security system is an alarm system. Alarm systems can be installed on doors, windows, or both. When activated, an alarm will sound and notify you or your designated contacts (such as a family member) about the presence of an intruder. It’s important to choose an alarm system that has proper sensors and coverage throughout your home so that it will activate when needed.
Another common type of security system is a perimeter fence. A perimeter fence can help protect your home from intruders who may try to gain access by way of the front or back door. Homeowners should always remember to lock their door latches when they’re not inside the home and to activate their alarm if there’s ever any sign of trouble.
If you have elderly relatives or friends who live alone, it’s important to encourage them to get a security system installed in their homes as well. A security system can significantly reduce the chances that they’ll become victims of crime in their own homes.
Make Sure All Doors Are Locked at Night
There are a few simple things you can do to make your home safer for seniors. First and foremost, always make sure all doors are locked at night. This will help to keep your loved ones safe if they happen to wander away from the house. Additionally, be sure to install security features such as motion detectors and solid door locks on all exterior doors. Finally, keep an eye on your loved ones during the day, and be sure to call them if they seem unsure or uncomfortable around unfamiliar people or places. By taking these simple measures, you can help safeguard your elderly loved ones in their own home.
Keep Lamps Dimmed When Not in Use
For seniors, one of the most important things to remember is to keep lamps dimmed when not in use. This can help keep them safe from falls, as well as from being targeted by thieves. Here are a few tips on how to do this:
1. Use a lamp timer.
2. Place lamps low to the ground or on end tables.
3. Replace lights with LEDs or CFLs.
Install Motion-Activated Lighting
If you have a senior citizen in your home, it’s important to take steps to make their living space as safe as possible. One way to do this is by installing motion-activated lighting. This type of lighting can help keep residents safe by turning on automatically when someone enters or leaves a room. Additionally, it can help reduce the risk of accidents by making it easier to see in dark areas. Motion-activated lighting is relatively easy to install and can be a great way to make your home safer for seniors.
Educate Your Family and Friends About Senior Safety
If you have family or friends who are elderly, it’s important to educate them about senior safety. Here are some tips for doing just that:
Encourage your loved ones to get their annual physicals. This will help avoid complications and injuries in the future.
Make sure they know how to use the telephone and the internet safely. Elderly people often don’t have regular access to technology, so it’s important to make sure they can stay connected without risking their safety or privacy.
Ensure they understand their medications and why they need them. If they can’t take care of themselves, they may not be able to take care of their medication as well.
Help them get involved in activities they enjoy outside of the home. This will help keep them mentally and physically active, which is important for staying healthy throughout their aging process.