Elder Care in Jupiter FL

Even shorter stairways can be a source of trouble for your elderly loved one. Look at all of the steps and stairs in your loved one’s home objectively and see if any of these adjustments can make them safer.

Keep Flashlights Near Stairways

If the power goes out, having flashlights near the tops and bottoms of the stairway ensure that you and your loved one are still able to navigate safely. You can either add a small table with a drawer or simply hang the flashlights from a hook near the light switch. Either way, you’ve got a tool handy when you need it.

Double Check Hand Rails

Many stairways have hand rails already, but they’re more decorative than supportive. Double check them and make sure that they’re sturdy enough so that if someone starts to fall, the hand rail can help to break that fall without breaking off the wall. If necessary, have a handyman come in to do the job properly.

Keep All Stairways Clear

Objects on the stairs are a common cause of tripping and falling. Make it a rule that nothing is ever to be left on the stairs. That way you can make sure that they’re clear and less likely to be a danger to you or to your elderly loved one.

Motion-activated Lighting Helps

One way to make sure that everyone who uses the stairs has enough lighting to properly see them is to use motion-activated lighting. Once you set it up, no one has to worry about turning the lights on or off. Simply stepping into the range of the sensors is enough to turn the lights on, and they’ll turn off automatically.

Cover the Stair Treads with Non-slip Materials

Some styles of carpeting can be a little slippery, as can hardwood stair treads. To solve this safety hazard, cover the stair treads with non-slip materials. Most hardware stores offer rubberized tread covers that glue down into place.

Keep Throw Rugs Away from the Top and Bottom of the Stairway

Throw rugs are pretty, but they have no place either at the very top or the bottom landing of a stairway. Throw rugs make it all too easy to slip and fall down the stairs or as you’re exiting the stairway, even if the backs are non-slip. Find another spot for them, even if you simply turn them into wall hangings.

Keeping your loved one safe on stairs and steps is easier than you think. If you still need ideas for stair safety, make sure that you talk to your loved one’s elder care providers.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Professional Elder Care in Jupiter, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff at Assisting Hands Home Care at 561­-829­-3080 Today.