When a person has reached the age that they are considered a senior, he or she may be facing extra safety risks, even without realizing it.
That’s because people lose strength each passing year. That goes for those who have been exercising most of their adult life. They will reach a point when they lose more and more muscle mass which will impact their balance and consequently affect their safety. Below are five signs that an elderly family member may very well be putting himself or herself at risk.
1. They are not accepting their limits.
Everyone has limits. It’s important to not only acknowledge one’s own limitations but address them. If the senior keeps telling friends and family that they’re fine, not to worry about them, that they can do this or that or the other thing, that’s a problem. They may be able to do it still, but are they being safe when they do?
2. They are not listening.
When you or some other family member tries to give them advice, do they shut you down? Do they tell you to stop worrying about them? They might not be listening. If they’re not listening they may not listen to something really important, such as safety issues.
3. They are rushing around.
As a person gets older it will take them longer to accomplish some basic tasks. As a result they may have a tendency to start rushing to get everything done throughout the day.
Imagine somebody in their 70s or 80s rushing down the stairs with a basket full of laundry. One little misstep, one slight shuffle or loss of balance can lead to devastating consequences.
4. They are refusing safety improvements.
How much is it really going to cost to install a grab bar or two in the tub or shower? How much is it going to cost to improve the lighting? What about to check the handrails on the stairs?
If they’re refusing safety improvements, even those that don’t cost a lot, they may not be accepting their new reality in life.
5. They have fallen already.
If a senior has fallen already it’s only a matter of time before the fall again. If they escaped injury the first time they may not be so lucky the next. If you know of an elderly family member who is putting himself at risk, it’s essential that you help him or her realize why they don’t need to do this.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Memorial, TX, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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