February is National Senior Independence Month, a time for seniors to celebrate the independence they enjoy and to plan ahead to maintain that independence.
Here are some tips to maintaining senior independence at home and in the community, courtesy of Seniors Speak Out.
DECLUTTER: Clear walkways and rearrange furniture to ensure safety and comfort, as well as to decrease the risk of trips and falls.
MAKE UPGRADES: Install grab bars in the bathroom. Check banisters on stairs for looseness. Add motion-sensor lights to any dark hallways and closets.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TECH: Consider installing a security system to protect against theft. Motion-sensing lights can detect any intruders and can also provide light when you need it. On a cellphone, use the flashlight feature, set up contacts that can be reached quickly and easily and use any location features for directions and step-by-step navigation.