Importance Of Medical Alert System For Older Adults Living Alone

Keeping your elderly loved ones Safety tips for seniors living alone is one of the biggest challenges that many family caregivers face. Fortunately, there are some simple but effective safety tips that can help keep your loved ones safe while living alone.

Ensure Homes Are Fall-Proof

A major risk for falls among seniors is the home environment. Whether it is trip hazards on the floor or poorly lit areas, it is important that homes are properly assessed for fall prevention. This should include both indoor and outdoor spaces. For instance, make sure outside steps are clear of ice in the winter and that any carpets have non-slip backings. It is also a good idea to remove throw rugs and use double-sided tape on any that may slip. Additionally, make sure rooms are well-lit and that all hallways and stairways have adequate lighting. Lastly, it is a good idea to have some sort of emergency call system like a medical alert system installed in case of a fall.

Many seniors who live alone suffer serious injuries because they are unable to summon assistance or have no emergency contacts in place. Encourage your senior to set up a list of emergency contacts in their phones, have emergency lighting and fire alarms checked on a regular basis and install a smoke detector to reduce the risk of an accident or injury from a house fire.

Having an emergency contact that is on speed dial can also reduce the amount of time that it takes to get help in an emergency. Additionally, a personal emergency response system can help with home safety and is available for purchase on Medicare Advantage Plans and through private insurance policies. Some state and federal programs such as Medicaid’s Home and Community Based Services (HCBCS) or 1915 waivers may provide assistance to pay for a personal alarm system.

Seniors who live alone should get to know their neighbors and build a relationship with them. This can reduce the feeling of isolation and increase the likelihood that neighbors will check in if something seems off. Additionally, having a neighbor or a friend check in on them daily can be a big help.

The bathroom and kitchen often receive the most attention in terms of senior fall prevention, but bedroom safety is just as crucial. A firmer mattress or a grab bar next to the bed can help make it easier for seniors to get in and out of bed. Replacing round door knobs with lever-style ones can also make it easier for seniors to open and close their doors.

It is also a good idea for seniors to keep a disaster kit in their home that includes candles, a flashlight, water bottles and basic medical supplies. This kit can be particularly useful during a power outage or if a natural disaster occurs. Having a reliable medical alert system with a panic button and instant contact settings can also be extremely helpful for seniors who live alone.