Electrical Safety For Seniors

Senior citizens are one of society’s most vulnerable populations. When we take care of an older adult, either because they are living in our home or we visit, we may need to do things to create a safer, more comfortable environment for them. With a little help, they can remain independent in spite of electrical dangers. Here are some ways to minimize electrical hazards for older people:

Turn the water heater to the lowest setting

The reasons for this are two fold; first, older people have sensitive skin which can sustain a burn quite easily in scalding-temperature water. Second, older people don’t move as fast as they used to, so it’s harder for them to get out of the way if the water temperature becomes suddenly hot.

Adding lights

Adding lights to hallways and other areas where the elderly walk to prevent tripping and make it easier for them to see to navigate. Want something even better? Add motion-detecting lights, so they don’t have to fumble around for a switch, or add LED lighting down at floor level or by stair treads to increase visibility.

Mobility creates independence.

Keep the scooter, or electric wheelchair charged

Many older people have an electric scooter wheelchair in addition to their walker. While older people should be encouraged to exercise, the frustration of not being mobile when they need it can be demoralizing. Keep the scooter charged. While it may not always be required, when it’s necessary, it can offer a better option to an older person than exhaustion and lack of proper mobility.

Larger clocks

Those tiny little clock faces have no place in an older person’s home because not being able to see makes a person feel helpless. Clocks with an easily readable face keep an older adult apprised of the time and minimizes confusion. 

Alarms

Smoke alarms should be installed and tested on a monthly basis. For the hearing impaired, there are smoke detectors with strobe lights as well as shaking mechanisms.

Seniors might also need a strobe/shaker alarm clock such as this one.

Electrical cords and outlets

Electrical outlets should be within easy reach for senior citizens. While extension cords are fine for occasional use, if an older person needs access to an electrical outlet on a regular basis, a surge protection power strip can provide that. Even better? Add a receptacle to a conveniently accessible location. Electrical boxes, as well as appliances and their cords, should be checked periodically for damage, cracks, and breaks, especially near the plug end of the cord. 

GFCI’s

Many older people live in homes they’ve lived in for years. Check for GFCI’s in all kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas.  Add them if needed and test them monthly. 

Space heaters

Space heaters can bring added warmth to a senior, who may get colder due to circulation problems common to aging. Space heaters are a great way to do this but should be at least three feet away and unplugged when not in use. A better option might be an oil-filled heater, which takes a long time to heat up but provides safe, long-lasting heat.

Zimmerman Electric is here to serve your residential and commercial electrical needs throughout the Phoenix Valley metro area. Call us today if you need electrical work performed 602-497-3365.