The Importance of Safety Tips for Seniors
As people age, they become more vulnerable than they were when they were younger. However, people over 65 often don’t feel any different than they did 10 or 20 years earlier. Vulnerability happens gradually over time. The following factors can lead to increased risk:- Becoming more prone to specific health conditions they like heart disease, orthopedic problems (feet, knees, hips), diabetes, or breathing conditions
- Less efficient immune systems that make it harder to fight off infection
- More brittle bones make falls more dangerous, and a loss of balance and muscle mass make falls more common
- Due to loneliness and lack of tech understanding, they can be more easily victimized by online crime
- Social isolation can lead to additional issues that put safety at risk, such as depression, undiagnosed illness, and poor nutrition, to name a few.
Top Tips for Senior Safety
Senior adults want to maintain their independence as long as they can while also being realistic about some of the limitations they may face. Below are some safety tips for seniors in a few key categories—safety at home, while out and about, scam prevention, and how to avoid injury.Safety at Home
Though home is the place you likely feel safest, it can often be the place where accidents occur. Staying safe at home includes:- Keep hallways and staircases well-lit and clear of clutter
- Secure area rugs so they do not pose a tripping hazard
- Rather than keeping a key under a flowerpot if you’re locked out, leave one with a trusted neighbor
- Keep your doors locked when you are alone or away, regardless of your sense of community safety
- Use railings, grab bars, and banisters when navigating the stairs, entering the shower or tub, or maneuvering in any area in your home that may pose a challenge to balance
- Be sure all your smoke detectors are fully charged and working
- Have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and near an outdoor grill
While Away from Home
When away from home, it’s important to be watchful. Maintaining situational awareness will allow you the freedom to be out and about without worry.- Always pay attention to who and what is around you, especially when in unfamiliar places or walking alone
- Trust your instincts—If something feels off or a situation feels unsafe, trust yourself and leave the situation or find help
- Avoid risky areas and stick to well-lit, populated locations, especially at night
- Carry a small personal alarm that’s easy to use and can help draw attention to you if needed
- Keep your cell phone fully charged and with you
- Practice situational awareness. This means limiting distractions like looking at your phone while walking and keep an eye on people near you
- Learn simple self-defense techniques like using your elbow to strike or aiming for sensitive areas that require little strength
- Get regular exercise that improves balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falling or being overpowered
- Keep a whistle with you that can act as both a deterrent and a call for help in an emergency
- Don’t share personal routines and avoid discussing your daily habits with strangers or in public settings
Scam Prevention
Unfortunately, older adults are often targeted by those seeking to make money through fraud. AARP offers a booklet you can request that includes helpful tips on how to avoid scams. Additionally, here are several ways to keep vigilant:- Have a tech-savvy friend on call to ask about potential scams, like tech-support scams, email phishing, false shopping websites, false social security or IRS calls, etc
- Do not let any maintenance or service workers into your home if you do not know who they are and did not know they were coming. Even renters have to get a heads’ up for any service being done
- Remember that scammers prey on your emotions, like fear or empathy. Be suspicious and get solid verification of authenticity, no matter how compelling someone is
Injury Prevention
Seniors are more at risk for injury because everyday mishaps can have more long-lasting consequences. Here are some safety tips for seniors to avoid physical harm:- Ask your doctor about doing an assessment of your fall risk, especially if you have had a fall in the last year
- Exercise regularly to build strength and balance. The stronger your core and the better your balance, the better able you’ll be to avoid bodily accidents
- Wear rubber-soled footwear in the house if you have hardwood or tile floors.
- Move intentionally rather than rushing and give yourself plenty of time to get ready to leave your house. Think about where you are going and look at the floor or ground before walking.
