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Quick Fixes Around Home Minimize Accident Risks

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The Washington Post

Published: November 6, 2007

A few simple, inexpensive fixes, from lowering the water heater temperature to getting brighter light bulbs, can go a long way toward minimizing the risk of accidents for seniors. Here are more ideas.

Throughout the house:

•Put a night light in every room, near floor level.

•Take up small scatter rugs, or at least trim fringe and add nonskid padding. Use double-sided tape between rug and pad.

•Put handrails on both sides of all steps and nonskid tape or rubber treads on uncarpeted stairs.

•Bright, glare-free lighting is important, especially near stairs and work areas. Frosted bulbs and dimmers can reduce glare.

•Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on each floor; use alarms with strobe lights for the hearing-impaired.

•Replace doorknobs and sink faucets with lever-style handles that are easier to turn.

•Set water heater temperature at 120 degrees to avoid scalding.

Entry:

•Have a porch light bright enough for adequate illumination and security.

•Put benches in the foyer and outside the front and back doors for resting or setting down packages.

Bedroom:

•Have a lamp and telephone within reach of the bed.

•Install lights in each closet, and lower clothing rods if necessary.

Bathroom:

•Install grab bars in the tub or shower enclosure. Bars are also helpful near the toilet.

•Use nonskid tub strips or a rubber suction mat to avoid slips.

•A bench or fold-down seat and a hand-held shower attachment can make showering easier.

•Replace glass or porcelain cups and accessories with unbreakable plastic or metal.

Kitchen:

•Swap out cabinet and drawer knobs with easy-to-use pulls.

•Store pans, platters and other heavy objects within easy reach and lighter things higher up.

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