As a premium provider of in-home senior care, we at Senior Helpers Canton-Rome-Cartersville understand the importance of keeping elderly relatives in our communities safe and healthy. Unfortunately, elderly adults are particularly vulnerable to poisonings from common household products. In this blog, we'll discuss common poisons found in the home, tips for preventing poisonings, and resources for poison prevention.
Overview of Common Poisons Found in the Home
Poisonings come in many forms and can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption. The most common causes of poisoning in the home are household cleaners, medications, and pesticides.
Household Cleaners
Common household cleaners contain potent chemical substances that can cause serious health problems when mishandled. Bleach, sulfuric acid, and oven cleaners are among the most harmful of these products and should always be stored securely and away from the reach of children and senior loved ones.
Medications
Medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, can cause serious reactions if mistaken for other substances or taken in the wrong doses. To ensure that medications are not mishandled, store them in secure locations out of reach of children and elderly adults.
Pesticides
Pesticides, such as rodenticides and insecticides, are commonly found in the home and can be extremely toxic to humans. It's critical to always read directions on these products before use and to store them in a safe place to prevent ingestion or inhalation.
Tips for Keeping Elderly Relatives Safe from Poisoning
Store Household Cleaners and Medications Properly
Take care to store all hazardous products in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion or inhalation. Household cleaners and medications should be placed in a locked cabinet or shelf, preferably out of reach of children and seniors.
Dispose of Unused Medications Safely
Unused and expired medications should never be stored in the home, as they can be dangerous if ingested by children or seniors. Unused medications should be taken to a local pharmacy to be safely disposed of.
Resources for Poison Prevention
The following resources can help you stay informed about poison prevention and keep your elderly relatives safe from poisonings:
Health Resources & Services Administration
Health Resources & Services Administration offers comprehensive resources on poison control and prevention. Every year, they spearhead National Poison Prevention Week, an annual event designed to raise awareness about poison prevention and general safety. Visit the official website for more information.
Poison Control Centers
Poison control centers are available in many states and can provide helpful information and guidance in case of poisoning. Visit the American Association of Poison Control Centers website for more information and to find a local poison control center.
Local Health Departments
Local health departments often provide services and resources related to poison prevention and can provide assistance in case of an emergency. Visit the official website of your local health department for more information.
Keep Your Senior Loved One Safe with Help from Senior Helpers Canton-Rome-Cartersville
Poison prevention is an important issue, especially when it comes to elderly relatives in our communities. By being aware of the common poisons found in the home, properly storing hazardous products, and utilizing the resources available, we can help keep our elderly relatives safe from the dangers of poisoning. If you or someone you know is in need of in-home senior care in Canton, Cartersville, Rome, Blairsville, or Chatsworth, contact Senior Helpers Canton-Rome-Cartersville. Our compassionate caregivers are standing by!