Bringing an elderly relative into your home for care can be a challenging but rewarding experience. However, before you bring them in, it's important to remove any hazards and poisonous household items from their living environment. Even cleaning products and medications could put them at risk if they aren't properly stored. This is your and your family's responsibility as a family caregiver providing senior care.
Cleaning Products
Household cleaning products, such as bleach and disinfectants, are among the biggest hazards in a home. Make sure to lock up all hazardous materials so your senior family member can't access them. Also, check the labels of each product. Many will list additional precautions or actions required before use around seniors.
Medications
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are required for numerous reasons. Whether they belong to you or your senior loved one, they must be properly stored and handled correctly to avoid misuse or accidental poisoning. Talk with their doctor about any special storage instructions and make sure all medicines are labeled clearly so your family member knows what they are and why they need them.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring toxic mineral that can be found in insulation, flooring or small objects around the house. It won't necessarily harm your senior family member, as long as it remains undisturbed. Coming into contact with it, however, could prove dangerous. You should contact a certified specialist to assess any potential risk of exposure and address any necessary remediation measures.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide is a potentially deadly gas, especially for seniors. It has no taste or smell and can come from several sources in the home, such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters, etc. Make sure all carbon monoxide detectors are installed correctly and functioning properly so they can help detect levels before they reach toxic heights.
Electrical Cords
Electrical cords can be a hazard to all members of the family, but they are especially dangerous for seniors with a lack of mobility. Long and tangled cords create an easy tripping hazard while exposed sockets can lead to electrocution if tampered with. Make sure all loose cords are organized and kept away from walls or walkways.
Tips for Keeping Potentially Poisonous But Necessary Items Organized
Keeping potentially hazardous materials, such as medications and household cleaners, in an organized manner can help minimize the chance of misuse. Common strategies include putting medicine containers in a locked box that only you can access. You should do this so your senior loved one cannot access medications that do not belong to them.
You should also store all cleaning solutions out of reach. Keep them on the highest shelves or lock the cabinet so your senior family member does not attempt to use them alone. It's also wise to find organic, toxic-free cleaners that do not have such a significant impact on the environment.
Reach Out to Senior Helpers Gastonia
Making sure your home is safe for a senior family member to live in should be prioritized. However, it can often feel overwhelming knowing where to begin. At Senior Helpers Gastonia, we're here to help families bring their elderly relatives safely into the home. We provide personalized senior care services that are tailored to meet the needs of you and your family members in Iron Station, McAdenville, Belmont, Dallas, or other cities throughout Gaston County! Contact Senior Helpers Gastonia today for more information on how we can make your home safer and your life easier with our range of services, from complete assisted living care to respite care.