It’s Easy to Make Your Home a Safer Place
As baby boomers plan for their retirement years, they want housing and renovations that will allow them to live independently as they grow older. Many are also caring for aging family members who continue to live at home.
According to the Canada Safety Council, falls are the number one safety issue for Canadian seniors. They account for almost two-thirds of injuries for which those over age 65 are hospitalized, and 40 percent of admissions to nursing homes. Falls are also the leading cause of fatal injury among seniors.
Most serious falls occur in and around the home, especially on stairways and in bathrooms – yet a few simple precautions and adaptations can prevent a bad fall from ever happening.
Seniors seeking to make their home a safer place should start with a visit to their family doctor for a health assessment. Local public health departments provide excellent information and programs to prevent falls. In addition, a number of very helpful government publications are available free of charge.
For an in-
home
safety assessment, contact an occupational therapist (OT). OT services may be covered under your provincial medical plan, extended health care benefits, auto insurance plans, Workers’ Compensation, long-term disability insurance or Veterans Affairs. Visit www.otworks.ca and click on OTFinder to find an OT in your area.
Install a wireless Home Monitoring system that allows you to reach out for help even when you can't reach the phone. Family members and neighbour can be alerted immediately.
Updated April 10, 2007
Return to top of page
|
