Home Safety Awareness by Julie Mercer
As we age, our homes should continue to be a place where we feel safe, secure, and comfortable. But research shows the exact opposite is sometimes true. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found 28.7% of adults over the age of 65 reported falling at least once in the last 12 months. Another study by the Hospital for Special Surgery found over 60% of falls happen in the home to help prevent falls and other accidents, you can make safety modifications to your environment and eliminate common hazards.
Being prepared for emergencies—like falls, accidents, or unexpected visitors—can help you stay safe and get help quickly when needed. Here are some simple ways to protect yourself and make sure help is always within reach.
Home Security System
A home security system can help keep you safe and alert you to potential dangers. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 93% of crimes affecting adults 65 and older involve property theft, burglary, or car theft.
Even a basic security system that notifies you when someone is near your door can give you peace of mind. Choosing a system with a camera and speaker allows you to see and talk to visitors without opening the door. This can prevent unnecessary risks, like rushing to answer and increasing your chance of a fall.
Medical Alert System
Medical alert systems can be lifesaving in an emergency. These devices usually include a wearable button you can press if you need help. Pressing the button connects you to a 24/7 emergency center that can send assistance right away.
Research shows that using a medical alert system can provide a sense of security and independence—even for those who aren’t at high risk of falling.
Medical alert system
Useful for getting help in an emergency, medical alert devices often include a wearable help button, which, in the event of a fall or another emergency, the wearer can push to connect with a 24/7 monitoring center. Research shows a medical alert device can help give users a stronger sense of security and independence and can bring peace of mind, even for people not at high risk of falling. 4
Emergency Phone Tree
It’s important to have a plan for contacting family and caregivers in an emergency. An emergency phone tree lists who to call and in what order, ensuring that help arrives quickly.
Some medical alert systems allow you to set up emergency contacts, so when you press the button, both an operator and a trusted friend or family member are notified immediately.
Quick Tips for Staying Safe
✔ Create an emergency phone tree to keep family and caregivers informed.
✔ Consider a medical alert system for peace of mind and quick access to help.
✔ Install a home security system to prevent theft and safely communicate with visitors.
Making Your Home Safer
Walk through each room and look for possible hazards. Small changes—like removing clutter, securing rugs, and improving lighting—can help prevent falls and accidents. Use our printable checklist to make sure your home is as safe as possible.
Low-cost safety tips
Many people find that they can make these changes themselves.
Add textured, no-slip strips in the bathtub and shower.
Apply nonslip wax on floors.
Use a shower chair, preferably with a back.
Put nonskid treads on steps.
Remove throw rugs.
Remove wheels on chairs.
Replace standard doorknobs with lever handles.
Replace toilet with a raised or high-profile toilet.
Use rubber-backed bathmats.
Medical Alert Systems & Devices For Seniors
