Falls, Fires, Poisoning Common Concerns

Falls, Fires, Poisoning Common Concerns Make Staying Home Safer for Elderly Relatives, Friends Baby boomers want to “age in place” at home after retirement. Nearly everyone nearing retirement age will tell you they would prefer to live independently at home as long as possible, according to a recent survey by AARP. Many will get their wish, thanks to better health and longer life spans. And with the number of Americans aged 65-plus projected to double by 2050, there will be a growing number of older people living at home over the next three decades. There are many benefits to living at home as we age, but there are safety risks as well, including falls, fires or accidental poisoning. If you care for an older relative or friend or are elderly yourself, you should know how to make a house as safe as possible for those living out their golden years at home. Read More >>> BY THE NUMBERS / 90% Home According to AARP, nearly 90 percent of people over age 65 want to stay in their own home as long as possible, and 80 percent believe they always will. [Download report.] #1 Falls Falls are the leading cause of injury for older Americans, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is a serious injury every 13 seconds from a fall, and every 20 minutes someone dies. 98 Million There were 44.7 million Americans aged 65 or older in 2013. There will be roughly 98 million by 2060, more than twice that in 2013, according to the Administration on Aging. BOOKMARK FAVORITES / “Staying Put” Helps Seniors Thrive at Home In this Nightly News special, Brian Williams reports on a growing movement called the “village model” that helps seniors stay in their homes. View video. Video Series Highlights Fall Prevention Health In Aging created a series of videos to help older Americans avoid falls, including this one on preventing falls at home. View video series. Fire Hazards: In-Home Safety Tips for Seniors Older adults are at a greater risk of dying in a home fire. Cue up these safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association. View Video.

Tell Nursing Homes to Stop Stealing Seniors’ Rights Forced arbitration clauses in admissions contracts are depriving nursing home residents of their constitutional rights. Take action Talking the Issues Check out podcasts featuring topics from past issues of You Should Know, and subscribe to future shows via iTunes or RSS feed. Listen now