Seniors can enjoy their older years in the comfort of their own homes by choosing to age in place. However, there are drawbacks to staying at home, especially when it comes to safety. Seniors are more susceptible to accidents and health issues, particularly if they have health concerns or mobility issues. To ensure a safe environment for aging in place, family members and skilled nursing providers will need to work together.
Recognizing the Dangers of Aging in Place
Aging in place has many advantages, but there are hazards that could endanger the safety of seniors. Some of those hazards include the following:
- Falls: A common source of injuries for seniors is falls, which can lead to fractures, hospital stays, and a loss of independence.
- Medication Errors: It can be difficult to keep track of several medications at one time, especially when they change often. Unfortunately, not keeping track of medications could result in missed doses or harmful interactions.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Without skilled nursing, seniors with chronic conditions may find it difficult to manage those conditions, which could result in a decline in their health.
- Home Hazards: Hazards in the home, such as loose carpets, cluttered hallways, and not enough lighting, all put seniors at risk.
How Skilled Nursing Improves Home Safety
Skilled nursing services and loved ones can reduce hazards and make living conditions safer by providing individualized care, medical knowledge, and continuous support. Consider the following:
Home Safety Evaluation
A comprehensive home safety assessment is one of the many benefits of having skilled nursing in the home. The assessment will point out the risks listed above as well as give recommendations, such as putting grab bars in the bathroom and repositioning furniture to make sure seniors are as safe as they can be.
Techniques for Fall Prevention
Beyond making recommendations regarding safety in the home, skilled nursing can also offer advice regarding fall prevention. For instance, they can encourage seniors to focus on exercises that increase strength, balance, and coordination. They can also help seniors get used to mobility aids, such as walkers or canes.
Emergency Preparedness
Skilled nursing can also help seniors prepare for emergencies by making an emergency kit, practicing an emergency plan, and even learning how to use medical alert systems.
Emotional and Social Assistance
The psychological and physical well-being of seniors is vital. However, aging in place can be lonely. In addition to the other benefits skilled nursing offers, they can also offer emotional and social assistance. Seniors who receive regular visits from home care can benefit from companionship, reduced loneliness, and increased emotional support. This ensures they’re safe, supported, and confident in their own homes.
While aging in place allows seniors to live comfortably in their own homes, it also presents certain safety risks. Thankfully, skilled nursing can provide seniors with the support and care they need to ensure they can continue to live in their homes safely. This support comes in the form of tailored care plans, recommendations for modifications in the home, helping them prepare for emergencies and more.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Skilled Nursing in Solana Beach, CA, please contact the caring staff at La Jolla Nurses Homecare today. Call (858) 454-9339
La Jolla Nurses Homecare is a top provider of home care services in San Diego, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carmel Valley, Point Loma, Bankers Hill, Mission Hills, Kensington, Coronado, University City, Pacific Beach, and all of San Diego County.
Sources:
- https://arcyhc.com/how-does-skilled-nursing-help-to-keep-seniors-at-home/
- https://adarahomehealth.com/the-role-of-skilled-nursing-in-maintaining-physical-health-for-seniors-aging-in-place/
- https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/home-safety-tips-older-adults
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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