Since 1996, National Safety Council (NSC) has recognized the month of June as National Safety Month. Their goal is to increase awareness of the leading safety and health risks in the workplace, on the road, in homes, and in our communities. They focus on lowering the top causes of injuries and deaths in the United States by providing reliable support and direction.

Reports show that more than 75% of accident-related injuries occur in the home, and for seniors, the odds of injury are even higher. But there are precautions you and your loved ones can take to prevent and prepare for emergencies. Join our care team as we go over tips and tricks to help make your daily life safer!

ameriCARE’s Caregiver Hiring Process Helps Ensure the Safety of Our Clients

ameriCARE Safety Tips for Safety Month

At ameriCARE, our primary focus is finding the most qualified, dedicated caregivers who understand their essential role in the health and safety of our clients. During an interview, we look for individuals with experience, but most importantly, someone who shows a servant’s heart. Potential caregivers must undergo an extensive hiring process, such as background and driving record checks, and complete our in-house skill assessment and training. Once on board, we provide ongoing live training for our caregivers to stay relevant on topics like at-home safety, ambulation techniques, and fall hazards to build and refine their skills.

Transportation Safety Tips

Transportation is a crucial area of focus during National Safety Month, and an important component to our care plans. Whether you are driving a car, riding a bike, or walking, it is essential to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Here are some tips to help keep you safe on the road:

  • Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up as well. This is a non-negotiable when we drive our clients to and from their appointments and social engagements!

  • Avoid distracted driving. Put your phone away, keep the radio volume low, and avoid eating or drinking while driving.

  • Follow the rules of the road. Obey speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals.

  • Keep up on your vehicle maintenance. Regularly check your brakes, tires, and lights to ensure they work correctly. Our caregivers can help you drop your car off at the shop if you need!

  • If riding a bike, wear a helmet and use hand signals to indicate your turns.

  • When walking, always use crosswalks and look both ways before crossing the street.

Following these tips and being mindful of your surroundings can help prevent accidents and keep yourself and others safe. And if you or a loved one needs assistance with transportation, ameriCARE can help. Our caregivers can provide safe and reliable transportation to appointments, errands, and other activities. And, each of our caregivers have gone through rigorous background and driving checks to ensure you are in good (and safe) hands!

ameriCARE Safety Tips for Safety Month

Mobility Assistance Tips to Prevent Falls

Preventing falls is crucial for the safety and well-being of seniors. Here are some tips we help our clients with that reduce the risk of falling:

  • Keep your home well-lit and free of any clutter that could be tripping hazards.

  • Install grab bars in the bathroom and other areas where extra support is needed, especially where surfaces can be slippery.

  • Wear supportive shoes with non-slip soles when walking or standing for extended periods.

  • Stay active and engaged in physical activities to maintain strength and balance.

  • Use assistive devices such as canes or walkers if needed.

  • Have regular vision and hearing check-ups to ensure optimal sensory function.

  • Keep floors and stairs in good repair and use non-slip mats or treads to provide extra traction.

By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent falls and ensure the safety of your aging loved ones. Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance, like the services provided by our caregivers. We also offer fall prevention measures and guidance on how to make your home safer for seniors. Let us help you ensure the safety and well-being of your elders this month and beyond.

Be Aware of Poisoning Dangers

ameriCARE Safety Tips for Safety Month

It’s essential to take medication as directed, not just during Safety Month, but all year long. If you have trouble remembering to take your medicine, consider ameriCARE caregivers to help with medication reminders. These reminders can help you stay on track with your medication schedule and reduce the risk of accidental overdose or adverse effects. Additionally, if you have children or pets in your home, keep your medications out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion. Our top priority is helping you and your loved one stay safe and healthy.

Keeping Safety Top of Mind, All Year Long

Even when Safety Month is over, it’s important to remember that safety should always be a top priority. Whether at home, work, or in our communities, taking steps to prevent accidents and injuries is crucial. By being aware of potential hazards and taking proactive measures to address them, we can all do our part to create a safer world. So, let’s continue to make safety a priority every day, not just during Safety Month. Together, we can make a difference and help ensure a brighter, safer future for everyone.