Seniors want the independence of aging in their own homes. What steps can be taken to ensure their safety?Aging in place is a way for seniors to live in a familiar environment while growing older. While it’s an ideal option, it can be very stressful for the loved ones of these seniors.

Striking a balance between their independence and familial confidence in senior safety is the trick.

Reasonable Risks

• Assess the dwelling for safety. Change handles and add grab bars as needed. Eliminate tripping hazards.
• Ensure frailer individuals have protection when falling. Walkers help but are a bit unbalanced. Clothing should be protective, especially where damage is likely.
• Adequate escalation. It isn’t always necessary to escalate immediately to emergency services.
• Behavior monitoring devices can track when a senior doesn’t move through the home predictably. This can help detect a fall.

Listen as Philip Regenie joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss new technology to aid those aging in place.