| An increasing number of retirees are opting to stay on
in their own homes or live with family instead of moving to units specifically
designed for senior citizens – but even the most active and healthy
of them need to take precautions to avoid household accidents and minimize
the risk of injury.
They should, says Berry Everitt, MD of the Chas Everitt International
property group, also prepare for at least some loss of mobility and
dexterity as they get older, and go through their home room-by-room
to identify and address potential problems.
Writing in the Property Signposts newsletter, he says bathrooms need
special attention, with the minimum suggested safety precautions being
non-skid rubber strips fixed to the base of the bath and a sturdy handrail
in the shower.
“And in the kitchen, all taps, electrical sockets and appliance
controls should be within easy reach; flammables should not be kept
near the stove and countertops and cupboards should be at a convenient
height for the seniors in the household.”
Other safety aspects to consider include:
* Clear and unobstructed passages and walkways;
* Furniture of a comfortable height to allow even old folk to rise
easily;
* Windows which are easy to open and close securely;
* Electrical appliance leads that are safely out of the way;
* Easy access to a telephone in both the living area and bedroom; and
* Non-slip backing on loose rugs and mats.
“In short, it often takes just a little forethought to prevent
a nasty accident, and usually, the extra safety precautions benefit
everyone in the family, not just the seniors,” says Everitt.
|
Newsletter:
25 May 2012 2012 to 1 June 2012 - Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa
