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AARP Home Safety Tips

by Elizabeth on October 17th, 2006

Either I’m getting older than I think or I just write about aging a lot, but, the AARP has found me here.

[/professional demeanor]

Oh. My. Dog. I just thought deeply about that for a minute and realized I am but 8 years away from a membership card.

[RESUME professional demeanor]

Anyway, I got a press release from them regarding home improvement tips for older adults (wait, did you hear me up there ^? I am 8 years away from being an “older adult”).

Since studies indicate half of all falls happen at home and the research suggests that one third of home accidents can be prevented by easy home updates and preventive maintainence, it makes sense to look for ways older adults can remain safer in their homes:

1. Install handrails on both sides of all steps (inside and outside)
2. Secure all carpets and area rugs with double-sided tape
3. Install easy-to-grasp shaped handles for all drawers and cabinet doors
4. Use brighter bulbs in all settings
5. Install nightlights in all areas of night activity
6. Add reflective, non-slip tape on all non-carpeted stairs
7. Install lever handles for all doors
8. Place a bench near entrances for setting down purchases and resting
9. Install closet lights, as well as adjustable rods and shelves
10. Install rocker light switches; consider illuminated ones in select areas

This is quite timely for me since my dad’s surgery has made me have to think, at least temporarily, about modifying his home during his recovery.

While I haven’t actually had to do any carpentry, I have had to really think through a routine of leaving certain lights on, clearing the floor of throw rugs, leaving chairs around strategically, etc.

Here’s more from AARP about home design, and more good things to consider when buying or renovating a home whether you’re “older” (like me?!) or caring for an aging person.

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POSTED IN: Aging, Media, My Father