geriatrics
Prevention of Injuries in Older Adults
Home hazards
The home may have many hazards. For example, people with peripheral neuropathy are at increased risk of burns from excessively hot water; burns can be prevented by setting the hot water heater temperature at<49°C. For people with dementia, using electrical and gas appliances is particularly dangerous; use of alarms and automatic shut-off features on appliances can help. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed and maintained. Firearms should be safely stored or removed from the home. All patients or their caregivers can complete a home safety checklist to identify hazards, including those that increase the Home Assessment Checklist for Hazards That Increase Risk of Falling . Physical and occupational therapists may visit a patient’s home to assess its safety. 