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Safety issues for the elderly primarily center on the risk of significant injury or death from preventable home hazards.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Americans over 65 comprise 71% of consumer product-related deaths annually, despite being only 16% of the populatio

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1. Falls and Mobility Risks

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for older adults. One in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year. 

  • Trip Hazards: Loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and electrical or telephone cords are major contributors.

  • Home Modifications: Installing Grab Bars in bathrooms and secure handrails on both sides of stairways is critical.

  • Lighting: Inadequate lighting, especially in hallways and staircases, significantly increases risk.

  • Bathroom Safety: Slippery wet surfaces and low toilet seats can be mitigated by using non-slip mats and Raised Toilet Seats. 

2. Fire and Poisoning Hazards

  • Fire Sources: Cooking and smoking materials are the primary causes of fire deaths. Loose clothing can easily catch fire while cooking.

  • Carbon Monoxide: Incomplete combustion from furnaces or portable heaters can cause CO poisoning. Install CO Alarms on every floor.

  • Water Temperature: Set water heaters to no more than 120°F (49°C) to prevent severe skin scalding. 

3. Health and Medication Management

  • Medication Errors: Complex regimens can lead to missed doses or accidental overdoses. Utilizing Automatic Pill Dispensers can reduce these risks.

  • Infections: Limited mobility can lead to poor personal hygiene or unchecked infections.

  • Cognitive Decline: Conditions like dementia increase the risk of wandering or leaving appliances on. 

4. Personal and Financial Security

  • Scams and Fraud: Seniors are often targeted by financial exploitation, phone scams, and healthcare fraud.

  • Social Isolation: Isolation can lead to depression and delayed medical response in emergencies.

  • Targeting for Burglary: Older adults may be perceived as vulnerable, making home security upgrades like Video Doorbells important. 

5. Transportation Safety

  • Driving Ability: Age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time increase the risk of traffic crashes.

  • Safety Measures: Drive during daylight and good weather, and consider Driver Refresher Courses to stay current on road safety. 

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Safety Issues

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