4 Safety Issues for Seniors Living Alone

No one likes to think that an older family member might not be safe in their own home. However, there are all sorts of things that can happen when seniors live alone that may compromise their health or safety. Below are just four safety issues a senior who lives alone might face.

#1: Falling

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of four people aged 65 and older falls every year. And, once someone falls, their chances of falling again double. While some falls result in only minor injuries, like bruises or scrapes, a fall can cause serious injuries, like a fracture or head injury. Depending on the severity of the injury, the older adult may even become disabled. Unfortunately, some falls even lead to death.

#2: Medication Errors

Older adults sometimes have difficulty taking their medicines correctly. They may forget to take them or take them twice because they’ve forgotten they already did. Taking medicines improperly can be dangerous or result in a condition being poorly managed.

#3: Fraud and Scams

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), senior citizens are favorite targets of scammers. Scammers prey on older adults because they may be more trusting, have money saved up, and aren’t as likely to report fraud for fear of being seen as incapable. A senior living alone may be even more likely to fall for a scam because they don’t have anyone to warn them when something doesn’t seem right about a call or email.

#4: Eating Poorly

Older adults sometimes have difficulty getting to the grocery store on their own, or they may lack the ability to prepare healthy meals. As a result, some seniors might eat whatever is easiest, even if the foods are highly processed and not nutritionally sound. Not getting enough nutrients can cause malnutrition, a serious problem that can compromise their health.

If you’re concerned about your aging relative living safely at home by themselves, elder care may be the best option for them. Elder care offers non-medical care services that make it possible for older adults to remain safely and comfortably at home. Elder care providers can assist your loved one to get out of bed in the morning, wash up or bathe, and get dressed. They can also be scheduled to check on the older adult during the day to ensure they have lunch and remember to take medications. Elder care providers can even perform services like cleaning, cooking, and transporting seniors to medical appointments, social engagements, and to run errands.