Keeping seniors safe from house fires is all about knowledge. If you’re a part-time caregiver for an aging parent or relative, it’s important to understand what the risk factors are in your loved one’s home and what you can do to reduce or eliminate these risks.
Assess the Risks
When it comes to risk factors, there are some that are relatively specific to seniors.
These include:
– Dementia
– Diminishing eyesight
– Slower than average response time
– The use of oxygen
– The use of certain medications
Make sure that if your loved one is at risk of any of these factors, he or she is diagnosed and treated by a medical professional. Sometimes, staying safe is as simple as getting a new pair of glasses, switching medications, understanding the safe use of oxygen, or using other assistive devices that can help when physical or mental health compromises the ability to safely live independently.
Consider Outside Help
Having help from an elder care agency in Jefferson County can also reduce the risk of a house fire. Aging individuals who cook independently sometimes forget to turn off the stove or leave a boiling pot unattended while they run to the restroom. Having an in-home caregiver who can prepare meals and provide general assistance with day-to-day activities is invaluable and gives seniors the necessary support to remain safe.
Improve Home Safety
Finally, make the home safe. Check to see if circuits are overloaded or outdated appliances are being used, and make sure your aging loved one has a safe source of heat. If he or she is using a portable heater or fireplace, ensure that flammable materials are never kept close by and make sure the heater has an auto-shutoff feature.
Make yourself aware of the risks your loved one faces when it comes to experiencing a home fire, and do your best to reduce or eliminate them altogether. To take your aging loved one’s safety to the next level, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our friendly and dedicated Jefferson County caregivers can provide safety monitoring and help with challenging tasks like cooking and bathing. Call our office today at (303) 987-5992 and request a free in-home consultation to learn more.