Kitchen Safety for Seniors
By Ewa Frydel, Owner
Many seniors aren’t going out to grab dinner every evening. Sure, some may be using DoorDash or other food delivery services, but most older seniors are opening their refrigerators to fill their bellies.
This is actually great and much better for their health, and wallets.
However, depending on the senior, this may also increase accidents in the kitchen. If your aging parent needs a walker, wheelchair, has Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, or tends to get dizzy spells or has TIA, you’ll want to read on.
Helpful Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe in the Kitchen
Minimalism is the way. Clutter in the kitchen makes the environment difficult to navigate through. Check to see which appliances are not often used and only keep the ones you know they use daily.
Try to find combination appliances, too. For example, an air-fryer can help prevent bending over a hot oven or reaching high to microwave a food. Toaster ovens are great as air-fryers, broilers, and toasters all in one.
There should be plenty of space for your senior loved one to move around, too. Try to tuck trash cans under the sink or remove rugs completely. If they have a dog, look into training to keep the pet out of the kitchen.
Remodel the flooring. Old linoleum floors can be slippery. If linoleum was installed decades ago, there may be evidence of peeling which serves as a tripping hazard. You’ll want to look into flooring that is non-slip. It may also be helpful to ensure your aging parent is wearing non-slip shoes or socks with slip-guards.
If your elderly mom or dad has a rug, make sure it doesn’t slip. Rugs or mats can be helpful at reducing falls from spills on a slippery floor since they typically come with a skid-proof texture.
Remodel the counters. A lot of remodeling might need to be done. If counters are too high, this can make items difficult to reach. It can also start to cause back and shoulder pain. If your senior prepares food often, you’ll want to minimize any strain.
Change the lightbulbs. Check to see if the lighting in the kitchen is bright enough. Good lighting is crucial for seniors to know what they’re doing or which temperature they set their appliances at.
Get a fire extinguisher. You’ll want to have fire retardants accessible in case of an emergency. Make sure your elderly loved one knows how to use one, if they’re able. Be sure to get fire extinguishers updated periodically.
Replace worn out safety gear. Gloves, mitts, hot pads, pot holders and even safety latches may start to get worn over time. Make sure they’re still effective.
Depending on your senior’s condition, you’ll want to check on kitchen safety from time to time. Kitchens are where many of us spend our time at home and it can also be one of the most dangerous places in our home.
Be sure to make safety here a priority to keep your senior safe.
For more information on kitchen safety for seniors, contact us.
We’re here to help!
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about kitchen safety for the elderly and should not be construed as medical advice.
