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Staying Safe At Home & Online

A grandmother in her home sits at a table, looking at a cell phone with a young girl
As we age, our homes should be a sanctuary of comfort and safety. However, everyday hazards can pose significant risks for elderly individuals. We’re dedicated to helping you or your loved ones enjoy a safe and secure living environment. Here are some practical tips to ensure safety in both realms.

Falls are one of the most common accidents among older adults. Here are some simple measures that can go a long way to reduce the risk:

  • Clear clutter and keep walkways clear of clutter, including electrical cords, shoes, and other objects that could cause tripping.
  • Ensure that all areas of the home are well-lit, particularly hallways, staircases, and bathrooms. Nightlights can be very helpful. Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen to prevent slips.
  • Install grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet. Ensure rugs are secured with non-slip pads or remove them altogether to avoid tripping hazards.

 

Stairs can be particularly dangerous for younger and older people. Here’s how to make them safer:

 

  • Install sturdy handrails on both sides of the staircase.
  • Apply non-slip tread strips on each step to provide better footing.
  • Ensure stairways are well-lit, with switches at both the top and bottom of the stairs.

 

Fire safety is crucial for everyone, especially seniors who may have reduced mobility:

 

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and test them monthly.
  • Keep fire extinguishers accessible in the kitchen and near other potential fire hazards.
  • Develop a fire escape plan and practice it regularly.

 

Medication safety is one that is unique to older adults who may be taking more medications. Proper medication management is vital:

 

  • Use a pill organizer to keep track of daily medications.
  • Ensure all medications are clearly labeled and stored properly.
  • Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to avoid dangerous interactions.
  • Lock up any medications that may be accessible to children.

Online Safety and Scam Prevention

An elderly man is looking at his smart phone

As more seniors become tech-savvy, it’s important to be aware of online threats and scams that target the elderly. Here are some helpful tips to stay safe online:

 

Recognize Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are attempts to obtain sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity. To avoid them:

  • Be wary of unsolicited emails asking for personal information.
  • Check the sender’s email address carefully.
  • Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

 

Secure Personal Information

Protecting personal information online is crucial:

 

  • Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts.
  • Consider using a password manager to safely store strong passowords
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible for an added layer of security.

 

Be Skeptical of Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers

Scammers often entice victims with offers that are too good to be true:

 

  • Always verify the legitimacy of offers or deals. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Ensure websites are secure before making any online purchases. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar.

 

Educate Yourself

Staying informed about common scams can help prevent falling victim to them:

 

  • Regularly update your knowledge on the latest scams targeting seniors. Websites like AARP provide valuable resources.
  • Participate in community programs or workshops on online safety.

 

Ensuring safety at home and online is an ongoing process, but by implementing these tips, you can significantly reduce the risks. At Consider it Done, we’re committed to providing support and resources to help you and your loved ones live safely and securely.

 

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