Some of the things we use every day are potential hazards. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says that each year, hundreds of thousands of people over the age of 65 need emergency room treatment for injuries associated with products they live with and use all the time.

Many of these injuries could have been prevented with some simple precautions:

• Keep cords and small items out of high traffic areas. Vision changes as we get older, making it harder to spot things we might stumble over.
• All rugs and runners should have slip-resistant backing. Check the backings on the rugs periodically to see if they need to be replaced. The National Institute on Aging says falls are the most common cause of fatal injury for older people. It’s essential to reduce your risk of falling wherever possible.
• Check all stair railings, both inside and outside, to make sure they’re sturdy.
• Use non-skid mats in the bathroom, tub and shower.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Keep all electric appliances away from sink areas.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Make sure it’s still full and that you know how to use it if there ever is a small kitchen fire.
• Never cook with long, loose sleeves. If you’re stirring a pot on a stove, for example, a loose sleeve can easily catch fire.
• Keep a night light on for those late night trips to the bathroom. This is the most common cause of falls at night.

Emergency numbers
Make sure you also keep a list of emergency numbers by the phone. Dialing 911 can be the fastest way to get emergency help, but your list can also include the phone numbers for your doctor and your nearest poison control center, as well as nearby relatives and neighbors. Make sure the numbers are large enough to be read easily. You may also want to keep at least one phone in the house on a table that’s low enough to the ground, so you could reach it even if you were to fall and couldn’t stand back up.

Lifeline
Lifeline is another great option to consider. With a simple push of the button, help is available 24/7. A Lifeline operator will alert a designated friend or family member that you need help or will dispatch an emergency crew if necessary. This is a waterproof button that works up to 800 feet from the speaker unit and may be worn around the neck or wrist. Catawba Valley Medical Center is pleased to provide local service for you. Our friendly, professional service technician, Josh Blanton, comes to your home to install all equipment that we provide for you. Carol Robinson, Lifeline Coordinator, will take your calls and questions about installation, billing or service calls. We can usually install for you within 24 hours and are available for emergency service calls.

Helping people live with confidence in their own home is a mission we hold close to our hearts and one that we take seriously. We are proud to support the active and independent lifestyle of older adults in our community. For more information on Lifeline products, please call Carol Robinson at 828.485.2696 or by email at [email protected].