Senior Independence

February marks National Senior Independence Month. Take a moment to review the living arrangements of someone you know, and ask yourself: What holds them  back? What could make daily life easier? Small changes can make a huge difference, and we've got some suggestions...

Home Safety Tips
     Brighten Up—Rooms should be well lit, so make lighting replacements where needed. Night-lights should be installed throughout the house—especially in dark corners and along staircases.  This can help prevent trips and falls over unseen objects.
     Clear Clutter—Keep floors and walkways clear of unnecessary items.  Simply rearranging the furniture can be valuable for those who may have balance or vision problems.  Make sure pathways are clear enough to move freely without fear of harm.
    Get a Grip—Install grab bars and handrails in the restrooms near the shower, bathtub and toilet. Using non-slip mats and placing double-sided tape under rugs can also help minimize slips.
    Open Access—Everything should be easily accessible, including the refrigerator, cabinets, drawers, doors and shelving. Also, place items on the lower levels of shelves for easier reach.

Stay Active to Avoid Accidents
  Did you know that daily exercise could help reduce the risk of falls? In fact, being inactive is one of the major risk factors of falls in older adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  With your physician’s approval, take part in any activity that promotes moving.  As always, walking is one of the easiest exercises you can do, and it comes with many benefits, including improved balance, strength and endurance.  Plus, there's no need to go anywhere to do it!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!