SAFE, SOUND
AND SOLO
Update Your Home to Live on Your
Own
According to the Census
Bureau, the number of Americans over age 65 is expected to
double, reaching 72 million by 2030. And when it comes to their
homes, the National Association of Home Builders reports that
this generation is no longer downsizing or moving in with
family. Instead, most are choosing to live on their own --
updating their current homes, or purchasing homes with
amenities to meet their changing needs.
As this generation of baby
boomers reaches their golden years, creating a safe home
environment becomes very important. Although the home is a
place of comfort and security, it can also be a dangerous
space. Slips, trips, falls and other injuries are more likely
as one ages, due to decreased mobility. In fact, those over the
age of 70 are the largest group injured by falls in the home
each year. So when preparing your home for the golden years,
there are many ways to ensure that each room in the house is
comfortable and secure, so you can live safe, sound and
solo.
Stairs and
Hallways
Stairs and hallways are two areas of a home
where most falls occur. To increase safety in these areas, make
sure each hallway is well lit so you can see any obstacles in
your path. Remove throw rugs that can become tripping hazards
and never use the stairs to house decorative objects. Finally,
be sure that each stairwell has hand rails on both sides. A
simple way to add this safety feature is with decorative hand
grips. Home Care® by Moen® offers attractive-looking nine-inch
grips that install easily and blend in with your décor. With
these simple updates you’ll be able to navigate pathways with
confidence.
Bedroom
As we get older, trips to the restroom tend
to become more frequent. While this may not be an issue during
the daytime, navigating from the bed to the bathroom in the
middle of the night can be dangerous - especially if the
bathroom is not located close by. For added security, consider
purchasing a bedside commode. Models such as the new Premium
Bedside Commode from Home Care by Moen offer a sturdy, wide-leg
design and extra large seat to keep you safe and
comfortable.
Bathroom
According to the Home Safety Council, falls are the leading
cause (66%) of all nonfatal home injuries. With the water and
slick surfaces, the bathroom is a frequent location for these
falls. Luckily, there are many updates to the bath that can
provide older adults with the added security and independence
they desire.
Studies show that
adults over age 60 often have difficulty getting in
and out of the shower or bathtub. To combat this issue, the
Home Safety Council recommends homeowners install grab bars
surrounding the shower or tub area. SecureMount™ Grab Bars from
Home Care provide an extra hand when entering and exiting the
tub or shower. Plus they feature a unique anchor installation
system that allows homeowners to install grab bars quickly and
easily anywhere on the wall - without the need for a stud - for
the ultimate in safety and peace of mind.
If additional help is needed
beyond grab bars, a transfer bench may be an additional tool to
consider. Products such as Home Care’s new Premium Transfer
Bench offers sturdy and comfortable construction for a transfer
into the bathtub that is easy and worry-free.
Additionally the Home Safety
Council recommends to install non-slip strips to the
bottom of the tub; use a bathmat with a non-skid
bottom near the tub or shower; and always be sure to keep the
floor dry to avoid potential slippery spots.
With a few updates to the
danger zones of the home you can be sure that no matter what
your age, you can feel safe in your home. You’ll be able to
live the independent lifestyle you choose and your loved ones
will have the peace of mind that these safety precautions are
in place.
For more information on bath
safety products from Home Care by Moen, visit
homecare.moen.com.
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