safety Archives - 5 Star Home Care https://5starhomecare.net/tag/safety/ When Only The Best Will DO Wed, 09 Sep 2015 08:31:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://5starhomecare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cropped-AZ0lm5niLN23oMmm6l32pQ-AZ0lm5njH3Ew4ogK5uFftg-1-1-32x32.jpg safety Archives - 5 Star Home Care https://5starhomecare.net/tag/safety/ 32 32 Keeping the Bathroom Safe for Seniors https://5starhomecare.net/keeping-the-bathroom-safe-for-seniors/ Wed, 09 Sep 2015 08:31:33 +0000 https://5starhomecare.net/?p=4663 According to Consumer Affairs, more than one in three persons over age 65 fall each year, often at home. The bathroom is one of the most […]

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]]> According to Consumer Affairs, more than one in three persons over age 65 fall each year, often at home. The bathroom is one of the most hazardous places in the home. Check out our latest infographic for some ideas on how to accident-proof your bathroom for you or a loved one.

Step 1 Remove these fall and safety hazards

  • Puddles that form after the bath or shower is used
  • Unnecessary items on the floor
  • Clutter shelves and counters

Step 2 Follow these tips for a safe bathroom

  • Install grab bars in easy-to-reach places to support entering and exiting the tub
  • Add more light and use high-watt bulbs
  • Make sure all essential items are easily within reach
  • Routinely rid showers and tubs of soap scum and mildew to prevent slippery coating
  • Make sure the tub has plenty of non-slip mats and strips
  • Use a raised toilet seat and/or grab bars on either side
  • Use bathroom rugs with a non-slip surface on the bottom
  • Invest in a sturdy shower seat, which seniors from losing balance and getting in and out of the tub

Step 3 Need more help? Contact us.

5 Star Home Care provides experienced, compassionate caregivers who can ensure the safety of your loved ones when you’re not there.

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]]> Is Your First Aid Kit Stocked for Senior Emergencies? https://5starhomecare.net/is-your-first-aid-kit-stocked-for-senior-emergencies/ Tue, 09 Jun 2015 05:16:51 +0000 https://5starhomecare.net/?p=4576 Although you can buy a pre-packaged first aid kit at most drug stores, it’s important to inventory the kit to make sure it contains what you […]

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]]> Although you can buy a pre-packaged first aid kit at most drug stores, it’s important to inventory the kit to make sure it contains what you need for your senior loved one and his/her specific medical needs.

First, let’s cover the basics of any first aid kit. The Mayo Clinic provides an excellent list of first aid essentials. We’ve summarized below. When you shop for a kit, you may want to compare its contents with this list.

  • Adhesive bandages and a roll of adhesive tape
  • Sterile gauze pads and a roll
  • Eye shield or pad
  • Aluminum finger splint
  • Instant hot/cold packs
  • Cotton balls and swabs
  • Non-latex gloves
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Safety pins
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Turkey baster
  • Breathing barrier for CPR
  • Medicine cup for correct dosage
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic solution
  • Eye wash solution
  • Calamine lotion
  • Hydrocortisone cream

Second, make sure your kit contains medications, but confirm there are no interactions with these over-the-counter drugs for your loved ones.

  • Aspirin
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen
  • Antihistamine
  • Decongestants
  • Anti-nausea
  • Anti-diarrhea
  • Antacid
  • Laxative

Finally, talk to your elderly loved ones’ doctor to find out if there are any items that are important for them, based on previous accidents or higher risk due to medical diagnoses.

If you are a caregiver, make sure you know how to use the first aid kit by getting certified. Are accidents a concern? 5 Star Home Caregivers are all First Aid and CPR certified. They are trained to handle senior emergencies. Contact us to learn more.

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