7 Household Hazards That Could Make Seniors Sick

There is more to home safety modification than adding abundant lighting and assistive seating. Additional safety precautions to take such as making sure the house is avoidant of any hazards are necessary for your loved one to age in place. Poor housing conditions, namely deficient air and water quality can lead to an abundance of health issues, especially for seniors who spend a lot of time indoors. You can protect your aging loved one’s living environment as well as their health by identifying potential household hazards and learning how to avoid or remove them.

Here Are 7 Most Common Household Hazards:

1. Mold

Mold is a common problem in indoor environments where it is humid or experiencing water leaks. While most kinds of molds do not cause illness, there are toxic mold and harmful variations that exist. The elderly and those with weakened immune systems or allergies can be vulnerable to mold. Change any conditions that could lead to mold as soon as possible as cleaning mold infestation can be difficult and require professional help.

2. Pests

Roaches, rodents, and other pests are not only disgusting to look at, but they can also affect your health. They can bring harmful bacteria and viruses into the home that can cause a person to fall ill. Seniors unable to keep their homes clean on their own could face pest infestations. Even just a few sightings can lead to a larger pest problem. You can call a professional exterminator to check the area and remove unwanted pests.

3. Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be found in homes and affect your health. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a condition that requires medical treatment and can cause symptoms such as weakness, headache, blurred vision, and confusion. It can be even as severe as loss of consciousness, brain damage, or death. You can help your loved one avoid the buildup of indoor toxins by making sure the home has proper ventilation. Carbon monoxide detectors can be purchased and easily installed.

4. Radon

Radon is another invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can impact your health. Exposure to Radon is a known risk factor for lung cancer so make sure to test your loved one’s home to avoid this hazardous gas. Radon tests are available for consumer purchase to monitor and warn for hazardous levels.

5. Poor water quality

You may assume the tap water in your house is safe to drink, however, there can be occasional factors that lead to health problems. For example, houses with dirty filters can cause unwanted chemicals, minerals, and even bacteria in the water supply. Also, some older homes built with lead pipes can cause lead poisoning. You can enhance your loved one’s water quality by testing the water and installing filters.

6. Hazardous building materials

Some older buildings have been constructed with dangerous materials such as lead or asbestos. Speak to a home inspector if you suspect your elderly family member’s home has lead or asbestos in their home. Exposure to these materials can cause serious health consequences for seniors.

7. Allergens

Identify and remove anything in the home that has triggered symptoms in your loved one such as runny nose, watery eyes, and coughing/sneezing. They could be allergic.

Keep note that safety household hazards in our home can go beyond what our eyes can see. If your loved one wants to age in place, modify the home to make sure it is avoidant of all hazardous conditions.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience.