Checklist for the Senior Years

Most seniors want to live independently as long as possible and work hard at staying mentally and physically active. Taking ordinary precautions in the home, as well as when navigating in the outside world will help ensure this independence to last a long time. A simple, check list of things to take care of will help avoid falls, accidents and avoid food related illnesses.

Food List

• Seniors are at a higher risk for food-born illnesses than young people. Frequently check canned goods that have been on the shelf for long periods to make sure no air has gotten in. Produce goes bad easily and should be kept fresh in plastic storage containers. Meat should be carefully stored in the freezer or securely wrapped in the refrigerator -- if is going to be eaten in a few days. Check the temperatures in the freezer and fridge to make sure the temperature is cold enough. Always wash hands and counters where food is being prepared. Perishable foods should never be left out of the refrigerator. A watchful eye on all foods can be instrumental for good health.

Bathroom Safety

• There are several things to check for to ensure bathroom safety. Check the bathtub for slipping, making sure to have non skid strips in the tub. See that water comes out slowly from the tap to test for scalds. The tub should be equipped with two grab bars for safety. Rugs and mats can be slippery, leading to falls; make sure they have rubber backing or added non-skid strips. Get rid of out-of-date prescriptions and have current medicines properly marked with daily dosage. Have a note by the faucets as a reminder to turn off -- when leaving the bathroom.

Stairs and Floors

• If the home has stairs inside or outside, check the carpeting to make sure it is securely fastened. If the stairs are not carpeted, check to be sure they are not slippery, loose or damaged. Try the railings for sturdiness, which should always be used for trips up and down. Remove all magazines or objects lying around in traffic patterns. All cords should be behind furniture and electrical strips checked for overload.

Basements and Garages

• Over-cluttered basements, storage rooms and garages can be dangerous for seniors, if safety precautions are not implemented. Take storage items away from traffic patterns inside the rooms. Check the garage for adequate lighting and examine the circuit breakers to ensure they are working. Keep all flammable liquids in tightly sealed containers away from flammable paper and rags. Unplug all power tools when not in use. Call an expert to check for carbon monoxide poisoning. Check the garage door to make sure it works properly.

Miscellaneous

• Make sure lamps and light fixtures are safe and working properly. Put nightlights in strategic places. . Wear shoes with some tread around the house. Keep emergency numbers close by. Keep towels and pot holders away from kitchen stoves. Place a telephone near the floor in case your might fall. If you are in fragile health, consider an alarm around your neck.