6 home safety tips for older people.

As we age, maintaining independence becomes increasingly important and so does staying safe, especially when living alone. The number of older people in Ireland living on their own over 65 has increased in recent years with reports that nearly 190,000 people live alone.  

At HaloCare, we understand the unique challenges older people face and we are committed to supporting older adults with our HaloCare care at home solutions, including discreet smart devices, appliance management solutions and 24/7 support from our Care Hub team.  

We explore 6 ways you can make your loved one's home somewhere that they can feel comfortable, but also you can rest easy knowing that they are safe. 

1. Remove trip hazards & implement fall detection

Falls are one of the most common risks for older people living independently. Fortunately, many can be prevented by identifying and removing trip hazards such as: 

• Loose flooring like carpets or rugs, 
• Electrical cords stretched across floors,
• Cluttered walkways,
• Slippery floors especially in the kitchen or bathroom. 

Consider using non-slip mats and securing loose carpets with double-sided tape. Keeping walkways clear and well-lit is also key to preventing accidents. 

When it comes to falls at home, prevention should always come first but it's equally important to have a plan in place in case a fall does occur.  

We offer contactless fall sensors as part of our home safety solution at HaloCare. Our contactless sensors learn your loved one's home environment using motion detection, which means no intrusive cameras. With built-in ‘long-lie’ detection, if there’s movement out of the ordinary detected in the client's home, our sensors will alert the Care Hub team who can then reach out and ensure the client is safe.  

Every second matters when it comes to falls at home.  

2. Implement an Appliance Management system 

Technology can provide an added layer of security and ensure the everyday moments can be enjoyed safely at home.  

HaloCare’s Appliance Management solutions are designed specifically for those who wish to remain at home but may need some additional support carrying out daily tasks safely.  Our Appliance Management solution includes adding small discreet sensors to appliances throughout the home such as kettles, ovens or taps. These sensors can detect if appliances have been used or have been left on.  

Particularly for those living with memory conditions, appliance management systems can bring peace of mind that potential risks in the home can be identified before they escalate to a crisis level.  

3. Secure the bathroom

The bathroom is one of the most high-risk areas in the home. Consider these simple modifications: 

• Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or bathtub,
• Install a shower chair and handheld shower head,
• Lay non-slip mats both inside and outside of the shower. 

HaloCare's long-lie detection offers an excellent safety solution for bathrooms, with the option to add emergency pull cords for extra peace of mind. 

4. Keep emergency numbers handy

Make sure important contact information such as family members, neighbours, and emergency services is easily accessible near phones or saved on mobiles for quick access.  

 HaloCare clients benefit from 24/7 access to the Care Team, working quietly in the background and ready to intervene promptly sound our clients need help.  

5. Simplify medication management

Mismanaging medication can lead to serious health issues. Use a pill organiser or consider digital reminders to keep your loved ones organised at home.  

HaloCare will provide medication reminders making medication management easier at home. 

6. Stay connected

Social isolation can be just as dangerous as physical risks as loneliness is associated with increasing the risk of early mortality by 26%. Encourage regular communication with family, friends, and community members.  

HaloCare offers a variety of ways loved ones can stay connected at home including: 

• The HaloPad: The HaloPad is an easy-to-use, secure tablet designed specifically for older adults, helping them stay connected with family and engaged with the world. It includes features such as photo sharing, personalised content and video calling.  

• Comfort Calls: Clients can opt in to receive a daily ‘comfort call’ at time that suits their schedule, allowing them to enjoy speaking to a familiar voice each day.  

Creating a safe and supportive home environment is key to helping older adults maintain their independence while giving loved one's peace of mind. 

 With the right tools ,from fall detection to appliance management, it's possible to strike a balance between independent living and safety. At HaloCare, we’re here to provide discreet, 24/7 support that helps older people live confidently and comfortably at home.