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Comment RSSHome Safety Update: 4 Steps to Ensure Senior Safety
May 3, 2012 | 7:45 am | General Health Issues | One CommentUnfortunately, residential accidents account for the majority of emergency response visits to households occupied by 
senior or elderly citizens. The prevalent occurrence of falls and cardiac-related emergencies see the continued need for preventive measures to include the use of medical alert systems.
This reality remains a severely underpublicized facet of American life as the steady increase in the aged population continues. Additionally, the increased work and family commitments of relatives combined with the rising cost of medical coverage engenders the need for careful planning by both seniors and family alike. As preventive measures remain the most effective response to the increase in home-based danger, the following list identifies four sensible steps critical to the safeguard of senior safety.
Identify hazards
Inventory the layout of the home or residence to determine the acute hazards. Some hazards include furniture, household appliances and stairs. Additionally, inspect the condition of any indoor wiring and ensure that heating devices remain properly regulated and in good working order.
Develop a schedule
Concerned family members and relatives should develop a schedule designed to both capture the activity of the senior and evaluate the health and welfare of the relative. The schedule should account for the use of call-ins or in-person visits while creating a stable chain of support and concern. Additionally, aspects of the schedule coincide with time period related to the use of over-the-counter and physician-prescribed medication.
Hire an assistant
Hire a licensed professional caregiver to provide routine medical care along with companionship and emergency response. Though the use of licensed individuals ensures professional assistance, family members and relatives remain a reliable resource for this activity. Consult with the senior prior to hiring the aide while creating a written agreement outlining responsibilities while indentifying critical concerns and protocols.
Purchase a medical alert device
The use of the 911 emergency response system remains critical in provide acute care for home-based seniors. As mentioned above, in-home safety begins with the inspection and use of critical equipment. In additional to the validation of a serviceable home-based landline, the use of medical alert technology augments emergency response efforts. These small, inexpensive devices provide an immediate connection with emergency services in the event of a fall or cardiac emergency. The technology efficiently establishes contact with local medical authorities while conserving valuable time and effort.
As with any plan or preparation contingencies exist. While this remains an established fact, proper preparation combined with effective communication lends much in the way of the safeguard of seniors and the prevention of ailment or injury.
Guest Article by JenniferSmith
Email address: jennaleesmith1@gmail.com
Tags: home safety, household hazards
Last updated: May 3, 2012
This entry was posted by 
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Some form of medical alert is essential for seniors. In fact, it is not a bad idea for anyone. An good idea is to use a cellphone, so that the person can call for help when they need it. This means that the cellphone must be carried at all times. There are cheap, senior friendly cellphones available, like the Tracfone SVC, which do the job at a low cost.