How To Help Prevent Your Senior Parent From Falling In The Shower

If your senior parent is living alone and you’re worried about them falling at home, you should be. Falls are the leading cause of injuries among seniors. And one of the most dangerous places in the home for a senior is the shower. Showering gets tougher for seniors as they get older even if they are in pretty good health. The physical movements of bending down, reaching for soap, and trying to stay upright when the floor is slippery can all contribute to seniors falling in the shower. Seniors who are living alone should have personal care at home services.

Personal Care at Home Westfield NJ - How To Help Prevent Your Senior Parent From Falling In The Shower

Personal Care at Home Westfield NJ – How To Help Prevent Your Senior Parent From Falling In The Shower

Personal care at home is specialized care provided by caregivers who have experience helping seniors with potentially dangerous tasks like showering, using the bathroom, or getting dressed.

In addition to getting personal care at home, some things that can help prevent your senior parent from falling in the shower are:

Use Non-Slip Mats in the Shower and on the Floor

One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of slipping is by using non-slip mats. Place a non-slip mat inside the shower or bathtub to help your parent keep their footing while bathing.

It is also a good idea to put a non-slip mat on the bathroom floor outside the shower. Wet floors can be extremely slippery, especially for seniors who already have trouble with balance. Make sure the mats stay flat and do not slide around.

Add a Shower Bench or Chair

Standing for long periods in the shower can be tiring, and it increases the chance of losing balance. A shower bench or chair gives your parent a safe place to sit while bathing. This makes it easier for them to wash without straining or standing on one leg.

Many shower chairs are adjustable and have rubber feet that grip the floor to stay in place. A bench can also help with getting in and out of the tub if space allows.

Install Grab Bars Near the Shower

Grab bars provide strong support and make it easier to move safely in and out of the shower. Mount at least one grab bar near the entrance to the shower and another inside the shower area if possible.

These bars help with balance and give your parent something solid to hold onto when stepping in or out. Make sure the bars are screwed into the wall properly and can support weight. Do not rely on towel bars or suction cup handles, as they are not strong enough for support.

Mount Soap and Shampoo Dispensers on the Wall

Reaching for slippery bottles can be dangerous in a wet environment. Instead of using loose soap and shampoo containers, install dispensers on the shower wall. This keeps everything at a convenient height and prevents your parent from having to bend over or pick up items from the floor.

Choose dispensers that are easy to push and fill them with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. This small change can reduce the risk of slipping on spilled soap or water.

Improve Bathroom Lighting and Organization

Good lighting is important for safety in every part of the bathroom. Make sure the shower and bathroom are well-lit so your parent can see clearly. Avoid clutter on the floor or ledges that could cause trips. Keep towels, clothes, and bath items in easy-to-reach places. A tidy, well-lit bathroom is much easier to navigate safely.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Personal Care at Home Services in Westfield, NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Top Reasons Why Seniors Need A Medical Alert System

A medical warning system is a valuable tool that can make seniors safer. As people get older, their health needs and weaknesses change, so it’s essential to have ways to react quickly to emergencies, in addition to their support from loved ones and the elder care team. With a well-rounded plan in place, seniors can thrive. An elder care team can educate seniors about the signs and symptoms of emergencies that might affect them.

Consider the following important reasons why seniors need a medical alert system.

Elder Care Somerset County NJ - Top Reasons Why Seniors Need A Medical Alert System

Elder Care Somerset County NJ – Top Reasons Why Seniors Need A Medical Alert System

Falls and Accidents: Seniors are more likely to fall and get hurt because of things like less balance, weaker muscles, and worsening vision. In the event of a fall, a medical alert system can send help right away, making sure that help arrives quickly to avoid further injury.

Medical Emergencies: Older people often have long-term health problems that can lead to rapid medical crises like heart attacks, strokes, or diabetic emergencies. A medical alert system lets seniors call for help right away. This makes it more likely that help will come quickly.

Living Independently: Many seniors want to keep their independence and stay in their own houses as long as possible. The presence of an elder care team and a medical warning system gives them peace of mind and lets them keep living on their own while still getting help when needed.

Effective Communication: In an emergency, some seniors may struggle to use current communication devices like smartphones. Most medical alert systems are easy to use and have big buttons and clear directions, so a wide range of people can use them. This quick communication can make all the difference.

Customization: Seniors can change their medical alert systems to meet their own wants and preferences. Loved ones and the elder care team can help seniors choose devices that fit their lifestyle and comfort the best, whether it’s a pendant, a wristband, or a button on the wall.

Fall Detection Technology: Many medical alert systems have fall detection technology that can automatically identify a fall and alert the monitoring center, even if the senior can’t press the emergency button. This function ensures that help is sent even if seniors cannot call for it.

Confidence: Seniors who worry about being alone because of health issues or a history of falls may reduce their activities and social interactions. This fear can be taken care of by a medical alert system, which will encourage seniors to stay involved and busy.

Ultimately, a medical alert system is good for seniors because it helps them stay safe, independent, and feel better overall. It is an effective way to deal with emergencies and helps seniors get the help they need. As technology keeps improving, medical warning systems are becoming more advanced and able to meet the specific needs of seniors. This makes them an important tool in caring for seniors, in addition to services from the elder care team and support from loved ones.

Sources: https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-medical-alert-system-for-seniors/
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/medical-alerts-for-seniors/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Somerset County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Safety for Seniors Makes a World of Difference

It’s so easy to get caught up in daily life that we overlook safety. Yet, every moment we get out of bed, step into the shower, get behind the wheel, ride the bus or train, walk down the sidewalk, ride an elevator, or do any other type of activity, there is risk involved. It doesn’t get easier as you get older. In fact, it gets tougher, especially as you move from middle-age toward your senior years. Senior care aides can help a loved one with this issue.

Senior Care Somerset County NJ - Safety for Seniors Makes a World of Difference

Senior Care Somerset County NJ – Safety for Seniors Makes a World of Difference

As people get older, that doesn’t mean their safety has to be compromised. However, with chronic health issues, medical emergencies, and the natural process of aging, many seniors will reach a point when they recognize their own limitations. Some seniors may feel “fragile.”

Even though it may seem easy to overlook, and it is something most of us overlook on a daily basis, when a person has difficulty with their balance, isn’t completely certain on their feet, or is worried about their safety for one reason or another, senior care is the best choice.

Why does senior care make a difference?

Frankly, it doesn’t mean this is better than family and friends or that they may very well be able to support them, but an experienced senior care provider will have a great deal of experience and understand common risk factors that many elderly men and women face.

An elderly person who needs a lot of medical attention around-the-clock could very well end up in a nursing home, even if it’s just for a couple of weeks or a few months. During that time, though, their legs, arms, and the rest of their muscles may likely weaken.

So, when they are discharged and sent home, what are they going to do? Their safety is going to have diminished even more. Perhaps the simple act of stepping into and out of the shower or tub could be incredibly dangerous.

Never make assumptions.

As family and friends, it’s important not to make assumptions about seniors in our lives. We shouldn’t assume they are safe and we should assume they don’t worry about their safety.

We should ask them. The more you sit down and talk directly to the senior and listen to what they say, the more you can take a proactive approach to helping them maintain a high quality of life and still remain safe, especially if they want to remain home.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Senior Care Services in Somerset County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Preparing Your Parent for a Blizzard

As winter begins to draw to a close in certain parts of the country and spring lies just ahead, many might think the worst is over. But in areas that are cold enough to deal with snow in the winter months, the increased likelihood of blizzards occur as temperatures allow for larger storms to build up and fall upon certain areas of the country. If you are in an area where an occasional blizzard occurs, read on for some tips to help your parent weather the storm.

Long before the storm hits.

Elder Care Warren NJ - Preparing Your Parent for a Blizzard

Elder Care Warren NJ – Preparing Your Parent for a Blizzard

Be proactive and make sure your parent is ready for any storm that may hit and cause him to be stuck at home for days on end. This usually means making sure pantries and supplies are well stocked so that your parent won’t have to try to go out in inclement weather to refill his prescription or refrigerator. You might even want to consider purchasing a portable heater or electric blankets in case his furnace goes out during a storm.

Now is a great time to ask your elder care provider to help your parent create an inventory of what he has on hand and then keep his pantry and medicine cabinet filled going forward. Never wait to fill those prescriptions until just before they’re about to run out: try to have a two-week supply on hand at a minimum.

Once the storm is coming.

If you know a bad storm or blizzard is hitting tomorrow, doing a quick check in with your parent is paramount. Make sure he knows what’s coming and the “rules” of safety, such as not heading out during the storm for any reason. It may also be a good time for you or your elder care provider to run a quick last-minute errand for your parent if time and safety permit.

During the storm.

Remind your parent that while the snow flies, it is a great time to do indoor activities like working on a puzzle, catching up on a show, or filling out boring paperwork. If a pet needs to be let outside, have a little area right by the door for the pet so your parent doesn’t have to head outside with it. Make sure phones are charged and keep communication lines open in case there are any emergencies during the storm that need to be immediately addressed like a health or home crisis.

After the storm.

Ask your parent to wait patiently as roads and sidewalks are cleared in his area. Sometimes snowplows make take days to arrive in more rural areas. Also, let your parent know which caregiver or family member is coming to shovel his walks and plow his driveway. If the snow is particularly deep and heavy, he should not be trying to do this chore himself. Once you’re able to access your parent’s home, check for any outside damage or clean up that needs to occur and create a plan on how it will be done so your parent will know he doesn’t need to worry about it.

When it’s all done and over, don’t forget to appreciate the beauty a good strong storm can bring to the area and take some time to enjoy it with your parent. It won’t be long till warmer days are ahead.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Warren NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




What is STEADI, and Why Does it Matter to Caregivers?

Do you worry about your beloved mother or father taking a nose dive on the stairs, in the bath, or on the carpet? If so, you are not alone. Nor are your concerns in any way exaggerated.

Elder Care Westfield NJ - What is STEADI, and Why Does it Matter to Caregivers?

Elder Care Westfield NJ – What is STEADI, and Why Does it Matter to Caregivers?

Falling is a grave risk to people over 65. And the risks associated with falling get ever worse as we cross the thresholds of seventy and then eighty. That’s why the Centers for Disease Control came up with a program called STEADI which stands for “Stop Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries.”

Three phases of STEADI

The STEADI program starts with an assessment of fall risk. This typically starts in the office of your mother or father’s primary care doctor. Patients are asked to complete a questionnaire. Key questions are:

  • Has the individual fallen within the last year?
  • How many times has he fallen?
  • What kind of injuries, if any, were sustained in the fall?
  • How worried about falling is this individual?

There are many fall risk factors, including medications, neurological conditions, chronic health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, and osteoporosis, to name the most common.

Depending on how the over-65 patient answers the questions, he or she may be mandated to take Vitamin D supplements and possibly calcium supplements and participate in a community exercise program. Or he or she may be referred for physical therapy as well as vision checks, foot examinations, and other care.

The CDC has created an algorithm for assessing fall risk that you can read here: https://web.uri.edu/rigec/files/Resources-for-Professionals.pdf. However, the algorithm must be administered by a healthcare professional.

The next step is to inventory available resources that can reduce fall risks. This might include recommending modifications to a senior’s home. Falls often happen in the shower and bathtub. So the STEADI program might assess the safety of the senior’s shower or bathtub. This assessment might also look at stairs, throw rugs, unanchored furniture in the home, etc. that might pose a fall risk.

The third step in preventing falls with STEADI is to come up with a plan to reduce fall risks. This might include making modifications to the bathroom, such as installation of grab bars, a shower chair, and/or a walk-in bathtub. Interventions might also include exercise regimes designed to improve balance.

Elder care can help you implement STEADI

Qualified elder care individuals can help your parents with every step of the STEADI program, from getting your loved one to the doctor’s office to recommending home modifications, to helping your parents comply with medical recommendations.

Elder care professionals are well trained to understand the risk that falling poses to seniors, and they are often instrumental in helping to avoid the falls that endanger our loved ones.

In conclusion, the CDC’s STEADI program takes your senior through a thorough assessment and recommends changes to lifestyle and home infrastructure that can reduce fall risk. It is well worth asking your mother or father’s primary care physician to implement STEADI as a way of evaluating your loved one’s risk.

Sources:  https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/about.html
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0815/p220.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4707964/
https://web.uri.edu/rigec/files/Resources-for-Professionals.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/falls/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fhomeandrecreationalsafety%2Ffalls%2Findex.html

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Westfield NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Top 5 Ways to Prevent a Fall

Falls are one of the biggest concerns many older adults and their family caregivers have. Their fears aren’t unwarranted. About one out over every four people aged 65 and older will fall this year. Falling can result in serious injuries, including broken bones and head injuries. Some people end up disabled because of a fall. Falls can even result in death. The good news is that there are many things you can do to help your older family member avoid falling.

Below are some of the most often recommended tips for preventing falls in older adults.

Elder Care Somerset NJ - Top 5 Ways to Prevent a Fall

Elder Care Somerset NJ – Top 5 Ways to Prevent a Fall

#1: See a Doctor

Older adults should work with their doctor to determine their fall risks and take steps to mitigate them. Bring a complete list of the senior’s medications to the appointment and ask the doctor if any of them could cause dizziness or balance problems. In addition, have their vision checked since poor eyesight could cause them to trip over an unseen object or misjudge a step.

#2: Install Grab Bars

The bathroom is a common place for falls because of the combination of smooth surfaces and water. Grab bars placed near the toilet and bath or shower give your older family member something to hold on to as they sit down on the toilet or step into the bath. Another good place to install a grab bar is near the senior’s bed. This can help them to get out of bed independently without falling.

#3: Clean Up Clutter

Clutter in the home can be responsible for a fall because it often encroaches on walkways where the older adult could trip over it. Move furniture that pokes out into walkways and discard stacks of old magazines and newspapers that could spill over. Look for cords that are strung across doorways and walkways, too.

#4: Wear the Right Shoes

Shoes can cause a fall if they don’t fit well or are worn out. The wrong footwear, such as heels or those that slip off the heel can also make the older adult fall. Shoes should fit appropriately, offering enough room for toes, but fitting snugly on the heels. They should be comfortable and have non-skid soles.

#5: Stay Active

Inactivity weakens muscles and causes joints to become stiff. It can also impact balance. Older adults should strive to remain as active as possible in their regular activities. They should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on at least 5 days of the week.

Another way to prevent a fall in your aging relative is to enlist the assistance of elder care. An elder care provider can be with your older family member when family caregivers are at work or elsewhere, helping them to get up from chairs and walk safely about the house. Elder care providers can also help to keep the house clean and remove fall hazards.

Sources:  https://www.everydayhealth.com/longevity/future-planning/prevent-falls-at-home.aspx
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Somerset NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Six Things to Pack in an Emergency Kit

If a blizzard, flood, hurricane, tornado, or other natural disaster hit, how prepared are your parents? Government agencies urge people to have an emergency kit prepared in advance of any storm or natural disaster.

These are the six things you need to make sure are in that kit.

Caregiver Hunterdon NJ - Six Things to Pack in an Emergency Kit

Caregiver Hunterdon NJ – Six Things to Pack in an Emergency Kit

#1 – Water

Make sure there is at least one gallon of clean water for each person, each day. If the kit is for your mom and dad, they would want two gallons per day. They should have enough water to last two weeks if they stay in their home or half a week if they evacuate.

#2 – Non-Perishable Foods

Canned soups, stews, and pasta dishes are handy in a natural disaster. While they may not be the healthiest option, it’s better for your parents to keep their calorie intake up until they have power back. If you need to enhance their nutritional intake, mineral and vitamin-rich milkshakes like Boost help. Keep a two-week supply on hand.

#3 – Battery-Powered Radio and Lantern

Have a battery-powered radio available. Your parents need a radio to hear weather alerts and news. You need a lantern for lighting. Keep enough batteries on hand to last a couple of weeks. You could also go for a hand-crank radio and lantern that is powered by cranking the handle on the unit.

#4 – First Aid Kit

Have basic first aid supplies in a waterproof zipper bag, such as a Ziploc freezer bag. Keep first aid cream, bandages in different sizes, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers like ibuprofen, and alcohol pads to clean wounds before bandaging them.

#5 – Medications

Have a week’s supply of any prescription and over-the-counter medications your parents use. Add those to the first aid kit to keep them dry and in an easy-to-remember location.

#6 – Documents

Finally, make sure the emergency kit has photocopies of important papers like your mom and dad’s government-issued photo ID, birth certificates, insurance policies, and a paper listing medical information and emergency contacts.

Who is going to check on your parents during a natural disaster? If you don’t live nearby, you need to have someone stopping in. A neighbor, friend, or family member is a good place to start. If that’s not possible, arrange visits from caregivers.

Caregivers can keep in touch with you and let you know how your parents are and where they are if they’ve been evacuated. Caregivers can also make sure they have enough supplies and are eating and taking medications. Discover home care prices by making a call.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Caregiver Services in Hunterdon NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Aging at Home Isn’t Just a Dream Goal, Here’s How to Make It Happen

So many senior citizens want to age in their homes. It’s familiar. They know the repairs that are done and need doing. They know their neighbors and the community. There’s a level of comfort in knowing what’s available for transportation, activities, and services.

As your parents age, you may worry about them being in their home alone. That’s a valid concern. There are ways to make you both happy.

Here’s how to make aging at home a reality.

Elder Care Union County NJ - Aging at Home Isn't Just a Dream Goal, Here's How to Make It Happen

Elder Care Union County NJ – Aging at Home Isn’t Just a Dream Goal, Here’s How to Make It Happen

Update the Home With Safety Features

Make sure your parents’ home has been updated with features that keep them safe. Grab bars need to be inside the shower/tub, on the wall right outside, and near the toilet. They must be secured to a stud in the wall. They cannot just be mounted on sheetrock.

Fix loose carpeting. Remove decorative rugs. If your parents have wood, tile, or laminate floor, make sure there is no raised surface or loose board that could cause them to slip or trip. Keep the floors clear of clutter like pet toys, shoes, and furnishings.

Check handrails on the deck, front steps, and stairs within the home. If anything is loose or splintered, fix it. If they’re rotted, replace them.

Rearrange Bedroom Layouts

When possible, try to put your parents’ bedroom on the main floor. If stairs become a problem, they’ll want to be on one floor. They need easy access to the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom.

If the home’s layout makes it impossible to move a bedroom from an upstairs location, you might want to consider saving up for a stairlift. When the time comes, you’ll have the money available to have one installed.

Look at Transportation Issues

Once your parents are no longer driving, they still need to be able to get to their doctor/dentist, area stores, and services/businesses. You don’t want them becoming isolated.

Weigh their options for transportation. How often will they need rides? Could you provide each ride they need? If not, could you arrange to have someone else driving them to appointments, social activities, and other outings?

Schedule Elder Care

You’ll spend time with your parents. When you can’t be there, instead of worrying about them, hire selder care aides. Your parents benefit from scheduled visits that help them with elder care services like medication reminders, housekeeping, and transportation. You have peace of mind knowing they won’t struggle around the home.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Union County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Five Ways to Help Your Senior to Be as Independent as Possible

If your senior has expressed that her independence is important to her you might have become frustrated by some of her expectations. These are some of the ways you can help your senior to be safe and still be independent, too.

Home Care Services Somerset NJ - Five Ways to Help Your Senior to Be as Independent as Possible

Home Care Services Somerset NJ – Five Ways to Help Your Senior to Be as Independent as Possible

Do Regular Safety Checks

Safety is the number one issue for aging adults at home. It’s also a huge part of keeping her as independent as possible. Go through her home and regularly look for tripping hazards and other issues that can be corrected. Home maintenance will go a long way toward keeping her as safe as possible, too.

Use Delivery Services More Often

Delivery options are more plentiful now than ever before. So many stores either offer their own delivery options or they contract with another company that delivers for them. When your elderly family member is trying to keep her independence, having someone bringing things she needs to her can be incredibly freeing. That’s energy and time that she can spend in other ways.

Line up Extra Help Regularly

Both you and your senior can benefit from extra help now and again. Home care services providers have experience in looking out for seniors and handling tasks that are sometimes more difficult for her. They can help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, and so many other tasks. Just because your senior is accepting help, that doesn’t mean she’s losing independence.

Think about Installing an Alarm System

Home alarm systems and personal alarm systems have developed into some smart technology over the years. Some home alarm systems even offer fall detection services, which can be incredibly helpful if your senior prefers to spend a lot of time on her own. Wearable alarms also offer this type of protection and can be the best way for her to get help in an emergency situation.

Open up a Dialogue with Your Senior about Her Needs

Sit down with your elderly family member and talk with her about what she values about independence and about how she defines that term. When you’re both on the same page it’s going to be a lot easier to meet her needs. These needs can change over time.

Whatever your senior is interested in doing to maintain her independence is worth talking about. Even if it’s not an option in her current situation, you might be able to do more to get to that point than you thought you could.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care  Services in Somerset NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Meaningful Modifications to Make to Your Senior’s Living Area

Being a family caregiver is about more than just giving your senior the direct care necessary to help the manage their needs and manage their challenges. Instead, it is about helping them to live their best life throughout their later years, and this includes ensuring their have a living environment that is safe, comfortable, and accessible. Making meaningful modifications throughout their home helps your parent to effectively address needs and challenges they are facing while making it easier for them to age in place.

Homecare Union County NJ - Meaningful Modifications to Make to Your Senior's Living Area

Homecare Union County NJ – Meaningful Modifications to Make to Your Senior’s Living Area

This supports their sense of independence and protects their mental and emotional health as they age in place. While virtually any area of the home can be modified, focusing on the living area is important. This is where your parent spends a considerable amount of their time, and is likely where they will be alone the most. Making sure it is accessible and safe will help them make the most of this space while still managing their needs effectively.

Some meaningful modifications you can make to your senior’s living area include:

  • Remove any lightweight furniture or furniture on wheels as these could unexpectedly move out of the way if your parent reaches out for them as they are walking by, or if they lose their balance.
  • Create a central location where your parent can keep items they use frequently. This can include the remote, tissues, lip balm, lotion, a water bottle, extra classes, and other items. Keeping them in this type of location makes it easy to find without having to search all over the room.
  • If your parent doesn’t have one, add a peep hole to their front door. This allows them to easily check who is at their door without opening it. An even more effective tactic is adding a security camera your parent can access through a mobile device or computer so they can check the porch and even communicate with who is there.
  • Be sure there are no electrical wires stretched across areas where your parent will walk. This can lead to tripping.
  • Many older homes are not equipped to handle the electrical demands of modern households. Make sure there are not too many electronics plugged into the same outlets and consider having the electrical system updated for maximum efficiency and safety.
  • Add extra safety elements to the area, including extra locks on the doors and windows, to provide added security.
  • If your senior has wandering tendencies, add locks they are not familiar with, such as those close to the top of the door and on the floor. This will help to prevent your parent from leaving the home.

One of the most effective and meaningful ways you can help your parent live their best life is through supporting and encouraging their independence. Having homecare as a part of making them more independent may seem counterintuitive, but adding this personalized care can actually greatly improve your senior’s autonomy and ability to manage their own life. A homecare services provider can offer a wide range of services specifically designed to help your parent manage their needs, stay active, and enjoy a satisfying lifestyle as they age. This can include transportation, mobility support, assistance with housekeeping tasks and other activities of daily living, medication reminders, and more.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Homecare Services in Union County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.