3 ways to ensure seniors stay safe at home

Health

Mon, 5 Jul 2021 | 3 minutes read

      

When it comes to accidents, you can never be too careful. Here are 3 ways to reduce the risk of mishaps at home, especially for senior members of the family.

Home — it’s where the heart is. It’s a space where we come together with our loved ones to create memories to last a lifetime.  But within these walls are potential accident blackspots, which can trip us up in everyday life. So it’s best to banish the blackspots before accidents happen.

Accidents are the top reason for hospitalisation in Singapore. In fact, 44% of falls happen inside the home*, somewhere we consider to be our safe haven.

Here are three simple ways you can accident proof your home for older members of the family.

1. Ensure the home is brightly lit

A well-lit home not only presents a more inviting space, it also makes for a safer one — particularly for seniors.

Try to ensure that staircases and corridors are generously-lit to provide better visibility and ultimately, minimise the risk of accidents. It’s also advisable to ensure light switches are easily accessible, especially if you have a family member who has special needs.

2. Install grab bars

Grab bars are simple pieces of equipment that can be mounted on a wall to provide support in potential accident blackspots. Whether they are installed in the shower, hallway or along the staircase, they not only provide seniors with greater stability, and help them to retain their independence.

3. Secure a personal accident plan

Accident-proofing the home is an important step towards preventing mishaps, and when it comes to life’s slip-ups, it’s important to be covered for the unexpected. 

The right personal accident plan can protect against a wide range of calamities, whether accidents in the kitchen or suffering ill effects after eating.

With AIA Solitaire PA (II), you can enjoy 24/7 worldwide coverage for medical, TCM and chiropractic treatment costs, food poisoning, kitchen misadventures and many more. No medical check-up is required and there's even extended protection all the way to 80 years old.

Protected up to specified limits by SDIC. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

*https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/the-dangers-of-a-fall-for-the-elderly-10843932

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