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By Harriette Halepis

If you have a single elderly parent that lives alone, you probably know how hard it is for that person to function on their own. Aside from constantly checking in on your loved one, there are a few things that you can do to ensure that they remain safe each day.

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This includes setting up a home, so that all things are easily accessed without posing any threat to your loved ones safety. The first thing to do is consider how you can make everyday tasks easier. Think about using long lasting light bulbs in place of regular bulbs, fitting a letter box at waist height, and installing 100 watt light bulbs that make seeing simpler.

Next, think about things that might pose a threat. Things such as wires that cross stairs or carpets may become treacherous if they are left out in the open. Pots and pans that jut out into a kitchen space should be put away, and all staircases should be fitted with railings.

Other handrails can be installed near toilets and bathtubs to ensure extra safety. In addition, non-slip pads should be placed underneath every rug, so that there’s no chance of anyone slipping. One of the biggest complaints that elderly people have is that they can’t reach everything they need with ease.

In fact, one of the main reasons why elderly people wind up injured is that they try to reach something that’s out of reach. Thus, it’s a good idea to position everyday items in accessible spots. Think about using labelled containers, placing items on low shelves, and putting certain things in plain view.

If you take the time to go through an elderly person’s home, you will begin to see things that must be moved, adjusted, or fixed. Make a note of those things that might become hazardous, and make sure to fix the situation properly.

Some elderly parents might not welcome the idea of changes to their home. However, these changes can prevent broken bones, head trauma, and even death. In addition to creating a safe environment for your loved one, think about using a GPS tracker to track their every movement.

This way, if your loved one winds up injured in a basement or attic area, you can easily find them. GPS trackers are also incredibly helpful if a parent decides to wander away from their home – sometimes loss of memory can strike without warning. Independence is important to elderly people, but so is safety – create an independent and safe world for them by following the tips listed above.