The kitchen is definitely “the heart of the home” for a large number of families and it is a gathering place for everyone and meals are cooked with love. However, it can also pose a danger to our family members in our homes. Kitchen fires and injuries can occur and that is why making the kitchen safe for seniors is so important! Here are kitchen safety tips.
Fire Safety
This should be addressed first. You can help to mitigate the risk of fires in the kitchen by installing smoke alarms that are elderly-friendly and carbon monoxide detectors. Also, do get the gas stove alarm which monitors gas leaks and gives an audible alert when a leak is detected. You can also get a fire extinguisher that is easy to be used by your family member.
Modifications
Organize the kitchen to decrease clutter and help prevent falls. The general idea behind this is to create enough room for food preparation and cooking, thus preventing falls. The easiest way is to organize it so that things are easy to access and use. This helps to take away any hazards that may cause your loved one to be injured or fall. This modification process is best done together with your loved one. After all, everyone prefers to have some control of their own environment so including them can give them some control. You can avoid future arguments this way.
Ample Lighting
This is often not noticed but very important as your loved one’s vision deteriorates.
Anti-Slip Flooring
This helps decrease the risk of falling.
Friendly Appliances
Choose appliances that are equipped with automatic shut-off devices, safety monitors, alarms and are also easy to be used.
Maintenance of Kitchen Equipment
This is important to keep things going smoothly and minimize hazards that the equipment may have.
Useful Tools And Gadgets
There are a lot more products available nowadays that ease living for your family members – it is truly amazing. Sharp utensils are a top cause of kitchen accidents. One way to prevent lacerations from knives is by wearing Cut Resistant Gloves while cooking.
Kitchen Chairs
These are frequently overlooked as part of safety. Many of our loved ones use kitchen chairs with casters (wheels) to make it easier to move the chair but these could end up causing an injury. Replace the casters with safety casters.
Kitchen Cabinet Products for Elderly
One kitchen product is pull-out shelves. They are easily installed into existing cabinets (no need to makeover your kitchen) and are very easy to use. They are an excellent way to avoid having to reach too far to the back.
Why Choose Discovery Village At Alliance Town Center
Our dedicated and hardworking team members at Discovery Village At Alliance Town Center, a retirement community in Fort Worth, TX, are committed to the highest quality of care you deserve. Our housekeeping team not only keeps your environment pristine but also relieves you of the burden so you are free to focus on developing your interests. Our maintenance team ensures everything runs smoothly.