Most seniors will tell you that they are happy to live in their own home and age as they wish. According to surveys, 95 percent of those over 75 want to age in their own homes. About 25% of seniors live alone.
These numbers are only the beginning. According to the AARP, Baby Boomers are reaching 65 at a rate that is approximately 8,000 per day. What if you are the adult child of an independent-minded senior? What if you, like Alison Jacobson whose SafetyMom.com site has a loyal following of readers, find yourself constantly worrying about the well-being of your parents?
“While aging-in-place is the goal for most seniors, how do you, as the adult child, ensure sure they’re safe?”She questions.
Here are some ways to deal with this situation:
* Preventing falls. Falls are the leading cause of death and injury for seniors. Jacobson’s worry is echoed by a Toluna survey, which found that caregivers were more concerned about senior citizens being hurt than the seniors (76.1 percent vs. 33%). It is a simple task to get rid of all scatter rugs, and ensure that electric cords do not reach high-traffic areas.
* Upgrading lights. Although seniors might not be able to admit it, the quality of vision decreases as we age. To reduce the chance of getting burned or cut, increase lighting in kitchen areas.
* Tech fix. The latest technology is the answer to substantial research highlighting the importance of staying connected for both seniors and caregivers. Harvard University researchers found that seniors without any social ties have a twice as high chance of experiencing mental decline than those with them. Toluna’s survey focused on the emotional impact on loved ones who age in place.
“For caregivers, ease of communication with the seniors they love relieves stress, reduces guilt and builds rich relationships,”Adriane Berg is a successful aging expert.
VTech has launched the CareLine home safety telephone system.www.vtechphones.com/CareLine. The product is made up of three separate pieces, each designed for maximum usability for anyone with sight, hearing or dexterity issues. The pieces include the corded base telephone with photo displays and a cordless handset. A pendant can be attached to a belt and carried with you. The pendant can be used to make and receive calls, listen to voicemail and remind you about appointments and medications.
