Home Alone: Senior Tips for Living Safely on Your Own by Janet Crozier
For many seniors, living alone represents independence. But living alone can be a positive experience while still posing challenges at any age. Following a few simple tips can help seniors live more safely and comfortably on their own.
“The best tip for seniors living on their own is to make every effort to follow a healthy lifestyle,” says Dr. John Montgomery, a family physician and vice president for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. “The healthier and stronger you are, the better equipped you’ll be to deal with the challenges of living alone.”
Eating a good, healthy diet, getting regular exercise and enough sleep are obviously good ways to remain healthy and independent, but there are often overlooked strategies that can also help seniors remain independent.
Reach Out To Others
Having a good network of people you can rely on is extremely important for seniors living alone. Being able to call someone when a repair is needed or when you are ill can make a big difference in your mental outlook. Keep a list of reliable contacts near the phone so you don’t have to hunt for numbers when you need them.
Get Organized
Develop a system in your home that helps you feel organized. Have a set location for your keys, wallet, important phone numbers, appointment cards and medications. Establish a comfortable schedule that allows you to complete routine tasks like shopping, appointments, meetings and visits. Put that schedule and related phone numbers on a calendar in a prominent place to help you function independently and prompt you to get where you need to go.
Check Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are one of the most important safety tips for anyone and should be installed in the kitchen, bedrooms, stairways, or any long hallways. Having them installed is only half the battle; you need to check them routinely to be sure they are working. A good rule of thumb is to change out the batteries when you adjust your clocks in the fall and spring.
Stock Up On Back-up Supplies
Maintain back up supplies like flashlights, batteries, blankets, candles and matches where they can be easily reached. A well-stocked freezer, extra canned goods, surplus paper products and plenty of bottled water will help you be prepared in the event of a power outage or natural disaster.
Eliminate Potential Trips And Slips
According to the U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA), each year more than 1.6 million seniors are treated for fall-related injuries caused by incidents such as slipping on a wet bathroom floor, loss of balance on stairs, or tripping on a rug. So check your home for potential tripping hazards, such as electrical cords, clutter or area rugs that are not in their proper position, and remedy the problem immediately. If you have stairs, install a second handrail so that there are railings on both sides of the stairs. Also make sure that your home is well-lit, as inadequate lighting can contribute to falls and spills.
Add Bathroom Safety Features
Many falls occur in the bathroom. A few minor additions like non-skid mats, hand rails if needed, and tub chairs all improve your ability to function well in the bathroom and to remain safe.
Don’t Delay Repairs
It’s important to get things fixed as soon as you notice they are broken. Don’t delay fixing a potential hazard. If you put off fixing the problem, you or someone else visiting your home could be injured.
“Being a senior living alone can be wonderful but it can also be a challenge,” says Dr. Montgomery. “Some of the simplest solutions can prevent accidents and can help make living alone a safe, secure and happy lifestyle that can be enjoyed for years to come.”
Janet Crozier has more than 30 years of experience working with older adults. Ms. Crozier holds a Graduate Certificate in Aging and Adult Services and is a Certified Senior Advisor. She has served on Northeast Florida Area Agency on Aging’s Board of Directors for many years and has been recognized nationally for her service to Medicare beneficiaries by the federal Medicare program Currently, Ms. Crozier is a full time Senior Education with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida.
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