What is more comforting than the feeling peace and security inspired by the safety of our home? Unfortunately, many have to face difficulties and conditions that make their home a little more hazardous. Whether it be living with or with someone affected by reduced mobility, altered cognitive functions or even raising a kid, your house can present a plethora of new challenges and risks. But have no fear, we have a few tips and solutions for you!
Watch Your Step!
Did you know that falling was the leading cause of injury? 20 to 30 percent of will fall at least once in the year, on average. 85% of elder hospitalizations are due to injuries received during a fall. This might seem alarming at first, but have no fear! There are a few tools out there to help with the prevention of falls and their associated injuries.
Wireless sensor pads, paired up with a cordless monitor, makes it possible to intervene as soon as a fall occurs. These pads come in a couple of formats. Sensor bands are generally used for bed surveillance while sensor cushions will be used on wheelchairs, couches and other seats. The internal system is activated when pressure is registered by the pad. When the weight is removed, a signal is sent to the wireless alarm monitor that will alert a nurse or caregiver that help is needed. Although they will not prevent a person from falling, these sensor mats will allow for a faster response time. Alternatively, or as added security, you might opt for a nurse call button. The at-risk person could press the button, if conscious of course, to call for help in the event of a fall or to prevent one. By acting quickly, you will be able to call emergency services or assist the victim before the situation worsens.
If it is injury prevention you are looking for, then you might want to use a safety fall mat. These mats are places at the foot of a bed to cushion the impact of falling. They are made of high-density foam that absorbs and disperses a part of the shock to limit the risks of injury.
Where Am I?
If falling doesn’t worry you, but you have a tendency to misplace your relative, you might be facing a wandering situation. While sensor pads could be useful, a better approach would be to use smaller and subtler tools to monitor exit points. It’s a good practice to try and camouflage the devices in the natural environment of the wanderer, as to not cause any unnecessary confusion or anxiety. As an added bonus, you’ll ensure that your surveillance system won't be tampered with or removed.
An infrared motion sensor is usually small enough to hide in plain sight. Often installed at the foot of a bed or doorframe, the sensor sends a signal to a monitor or pager when the detection line is broken. For exit points, such as doors and windows, a magnetic sensor or transmitter bracelet could be used. They are small enough to disguise in a room and will alert you when the person being cared for approaches or opens a door/window. In some situations, a magnetic locking system may be added in conjunction to a transmitter bracelet system for added security to completely seal the exit before an attempt is made. You might not be able to stop the hankering for a wander, but you can still make it safer with the right equipment.
For the Occasional Leak
We have all, one in our life, dreamed of a toilet and the promise of sweet release. We have all been woken by its warm deception... Whether it a childhood hurdle or an adult incontinence problem, it is always an uncomfortable and disappointing situation to deal with.
To address this problem, the EnuReflex Clinic (a 100% Québecois business) developed their bedwetting alarm system: The Urine-Alert. This all-around urine detection system can help deal with enuresis (bedwetting), potty training of you kids, diaper rash, dermatitis, bed sores, adult incontinence problems and with homecare situations with a bedridden person. Using the system is as easy as your ABCs. A detection band is inserted into the underwear or diaper that is connected to an external and wireless monitor, a vibrating puck or both. When the band detects moisture, a signal is sent to the monitor and puck. The monitor alerts a parent or caregiver before the wetness becomes unbearably uncomfortable. The puck is used slightly differently. It is generally inserted under the mattress or the pillow of the sleeper. The vibration helps to condition the sleeper to wake-up before having to go and reinforcing the vesical sphincter in the case of enuresis. Available to rent or own, depending on your needs, the EnuReflex will help you find the comfort and assurance to sleep soundly. Nighty-night!
As you can see, there is a plethora of systems and solutions out there to help make your home a safer and more comfortable environment for you and your loved-ones. Whether it be heightened surveillance, a quicker response time, at home or in institutional settings, there is a medical alert system to assist you.
At Équipements adaptés MCL, our experts are able and ready to support and inform you along your journey and decision-making process. We have access to a variety of excellent alert systems, and we know the hardships and challenge of making your home a safer and adapted nest. It would be our pleasure to help you find the right tools for you, or simply to give you a few tips!
