Aging in place is a common choice for many seniors, but some may face difficulty doing so independently, especially during the night hours. To reduce the risks associated with the dangers mentioned below, take advantage of the accompanying prevention tips. The objective is to ensure your senior loved one can maintain independence, comfort, and happiness while living at home alone.
Slips & Falls
Going to the restroom during the night may be more challenging for seniors due to worsening mobility, eyesight, or cognitive abilities. As a result, they may be at higher risk for slips and falls that increase the odds of broken bones, head injuries, or the need for hospitalization.
To maintain your loved one’s comfort and safety, keep the home well lit and easy to navigate with nightlights and clear pathways. Rearranging the bedroom layout and removing potentially dangerous objects can also prevent accidents.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional in-home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Medication Mishaps
Despite being alert when taking medicine in the morning and evening, your loved one may have a higher chance of forgetting or skipping nighttime doses due to sleepiness or memory issues. However, it’s just as important to take medicine correctly at night as it is during the rest of the day. You can prevent this danger by stepping in and offering medication reminders. For instance, you can connect with your loved one via phone or video chats when it’s time to take the prescriptions.
Your family can also hire a professional caregiver who can stay with your loved one during the night to ensure they receive timely medication reminders, and the caregiver can also monitor your loved one’s safety and be there to prevent isolation and depression.
For many seniors, 24-hour home care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Corio by Institute on Aging (IOA), we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care San Francisco industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.
Electrical Hazards
At night, when your loved one is more likely to lose their balance, there’s also a risk of knocking over a cup of water, increasing the chances of not only slips and falls but also electrical hazards. If water from a glass were to spill into an electrical outlet, it could cause a power outage or fire. For this reason, it’s important to keep all outlets and electrical cords covered or securely placed for protection. To minimize the chances of electrical accidents, you should also encourage your loved one to use spill-proof cups and containers when drinking and eating.
Burglary
Although individuals of all ages are at risk for theft when living alone, seniors may not be able to respond as quickly or effectively as those with stronger cognitive and mental abilities. To protect your loved one’s home and safety from nighttime theft, install alarms that notify authorities, you, and your siblings.
In addition to security systems, your loved one needs a safe place they can get to quickly so they can hide from thieves. The location should have a mobile device that allows your loved one to alert you and others of the danger and keep you updated on their whereabouts until someone can get to the home and help.
Professional caregivers can help seniors stay safe in their homes. Families looking for top-rated hourly, 24-hour, and live-in care providers can reach out to Corio by IOA. From respite for family caregivers to specialized dementia care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. To learn about our quality-assured services, give us a call today at (415) 750-4111.