Proactive tips to keep you safe in your home

I’m not Suzy Homemaker and I’m not proficient in elder care. However, as I age, I see situations around the house I had paid little attention to. I haven’t fallen yet (knock on wood), and the tips here should make falling a far-off possibility. However, now that I’m talking about it, who knows what karma may do.  

Get a Cane 

When the weather turns cool, my arthritis flairs up and I get stiff knees and legs. I walk like the Tin Man without oil. My husband suggested I get a cane for going to the bathroom. I gave him a look, but soon afterwards, I overheard two ladies younger than me describe how their canes hang at the head of their beds. I reconsidered hubby’s suggestion, and the cane really makes walking to the loo at night much easier. 

Train pets to sleep a great distance from you

If my doggie could’ve gotten in bed with us, she would’ve. Once, I tripped over her lying by the side of the bed. She yelped louder than me. After that, I relegated my little cutie to the other side of the room. Also, she snored.

Get a carryall for trips downstairs

I hate needless trips downstairs. Every night I bring up a tote bag, and before I go down each morning, I check that everything I brought up the night before is back in the bag. Drinking cups, water bottles, paper towels, tissues—I’ve used the night before—I put in small plastic grocery bags to toss. On top of the pile is my Ipad and cellphone. The tote bag gives me a free hand to use on the bannister if I need to suddenly reach out.

Socks on wooden or tiled stairs

I wear slippers with rubber tread bottoms. However, if I get to the wooden stairs without my slippers, I’ll remove my socks. It’s safer for me to go down wooden or stone steps with bare feet. Socks with no treads have caused me to slip on smooth, shiny surfaces.

Watch where you’re going as you descend the stairs

I know you’re still young! Age ain’t nothing but a number! But no matter how spry you feel, don’t go down the stairs thinking you’re a teenager. Watch your step! My daughters have taken tumbles because they hastily skipped a step. If they’d received broken bones, healing time would’ve been much quicker than mine.

Turn under an area rug as soon as you see it’s raised

Your feet can easily get tangled in a pretty little area rug separating the kitchen from the living room. I’ve tripped over those a time or two. Always place a pad under your area rugs to prevent them from sliding while you’re on them. 

This post may not be for everyone, but this is what was on my mind this morning and I shared it with you. Are there any hazards you want to warn us of?