Health and safety at home

Most falls happen at home, and many can be prevented. Start with a walk through your parent’s house with fresh eyes.

Fall prevention

• Remove throw rugs and clutter from walkways.
• Add bright lights to stairs, hallways, and the path to the bathroom at night.
• Put grab bars by the toilet and in the shower.
• Ask the doctor to review medications that cause dizziness.
• Look for a balance class. Many Michigan senior centers offer “A Matter of Balance.”

Home changes that help

Small changes cost less than a move: a raised toilet seat, a shower chair, handrails on both sides of stairs, lever door handles, and a first-floor bedroom if stairs are hard. An occupational therapist can do a home safety check, and Medicare may cover it with a doctor’s order.

Medical alert systems

A medical alert system lets your parent call for help with the push of a button. Before you choose one, compare:

• Fall detection: calls for help even if your parent can’t press the button.
• At home or on the go: home units work near a base station, mobile units work anywhere with cell service.
• Monthly fee and contract: avoid long contracts and cancellation fees.

See home safety products for what to look for.

Medication management

Mixed-up pills send many older adults to the hospital. Use a weekly pill organizer or an automatic dispenser, keep one up-to-date medication list, and bring every bottle to a pharmacist once a year for a review. People with Medicare drug plans and several chronic conditions may get a free medication review through their plan.