There are many possible reasons why a senior may live on their own. Often, it’s because of the death of a spouse, a divorce, or not having family close by. While there are some benefits to having your own space, it can also be isolating and come with a set of risks that are especially difficult for senior citizens. It’s important to consider the potential risks for the elderly living alone and do what you can to help maintain their safety and well-being.
Medication Management
Many senior citizens take medication for various ailments. They may be for blood pressure, heart troubles, or simple pain relief from conditions like arthritis. When people have to balance multiple medications, it becomes more likely that they may take some pills at the wrong time or mix them with medications they don’t work with. A common workaround is to use a daily pill box to help organize things ahead of time. But it’s essential to get the medications correct to avoid any unpleasant side effects.
Falling Hazards
Tripping and falling is one of the largest risks any senior can encounter. When they live alone with no one present to help them get back up, the idea of falling can become frightening. There’s some helpful technology for seniors living alone that can allow them to contact the outside world for help in the event of a fall. Other preventative measures may include having a walker, avoiding stairs, and carpeting the floors for a softer landing in the event of misfortune.
Malnutrition
An improper diet is one of the biggest potential risks for the elderly living alone. As people get older, they may find it more challenging to cook healthier meals with a variety of ingredients. Instead, they may start to rely on take-out or frozen meals that are high in sodium and other additives. If you know a senior living alone, consider taking them grocery shopping or offering to cook a healthy meal for them every now and then. Maintaining a nutritious diet becomes more challenging with age but is more important than ever for keeping up with health.
