As the U.S. population ages, senior safety has become increasingly popular as more opt to remain in their homes to grow older. In fact, the American Psych. Association reports that 12 million adults over the age of 65 currently live at home, and this number is projected to only increase with time.
Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure they age safely at with dignity and independence. Check out this senior safety checklist to keep your loved ones secure at home:
Burglar-Proof the Home
Seniors are more likely to be victims of property crimes than any other age group. So it’s natural to worry about them being a vulnerable target for burglary. Luckily, The Slomin’s Shield® home security system provides aging adults and family members with one of the most valuable things you can buy: peace of mind.
- Total home security. Safety and security features like door and window contacts, pet-friendly motion sensors, video cameras, temperature sensors and flood detectors help protect the elderly from risks at home.
- Visible deterrents proven to work. Slomin’s lawn signs and window decals help deter real threats—showcasing a visible warning letting outsiders know the home is equipped with professional security. This reduces the likelihood of burglars targeting the property in the first place.
Senior Safety with a Medical Alert System
Slomin’s personal emergency pendant lets seniors age safely while also allowing loved ones to rest easy knowing help is available to them at the push of a button.
Compact in size always connected, this wireless panic button instantly signals our 24/7 Professional Monitoring Station from anywhere in the house. For seniors living alone, this can be lifesaving in a wide-range of situations including:
- Falls. According to the CDC, more than 32,000 deaths in adults over the age of 65 result from falls each year. Since falls can leave seniors too badly injured to get help by themselves, emergency pendants provide instant access to Slomin’s central station at the push of a button.
- Intruders. Even with an alarm unit in place, homeowners can sometimes forget to arm their system. Seniors living alone can immediately call for help with the panic button if they notice someone breaking into the home.
Stay Connected with Home Automation
Home security and safety measures not only help protect against crime and fires – but also give a secure platform for home automation technology.
As of 2021, 62% of adults over 65 use smartphones and wireless devices. With that in mind, upgrading to a smart home is one of the most advanced and convenient ways for seniors to make life easier and for their loved ones to check in and make sure things are running smoothly—regardless of how near or far they reside from each other. Here are some benefits:
- Maintain a watchful eye. Slomin’s automated video surveillance cameras allow you to keep tabs on the property from your smartphone from virtually anywhere. With that, you can rest assured your loved ones are safe and happy at home, without having to physically be there all the time.
- Remote porch access. Our motion-activated doorbell camera lets senior homeowners see exactly who’s at the front door and interact (or not) via two-way audio, without ever getting up. Family members can access video feeds and livestream porch activity from anywhere with internet access using the MySlomins App.
Fire & Hazard Safety
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, people aged 65 and up are twice as likely to be injured or killed in a home fire compared to the rest of the population. With seniors living at home likely spending a good amount of time in and around the house, fire and hazard safety is especially important.
- Smoke, CO2, and heat sensors. Working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and temperature sensors are essential for keeping seniors safe at home—especially if they spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Be sure to check detectors regularly and replace any dead batteries when needed.
- Review fire safety. The Fire Administration offers “Fire Safety for Older Adults” to assist aging adults and families review fire safety at home. For example, adult children should remind their parents to never smoke in bed, where medical oxygen is used, or while drinking alcohol or taking medications that can make them tired.
Slomin’s Makes Senior Safety Easier
To learn more about how Slomin’s can help make the home safer and happier for seniors aging in place, schedule a free in-home consultation below, or give us a call at 1-800-ALARM-ME to speak with a specialist.
