Although they may be classified as elderly, they are still sound in mind and body. I had the experience recently where my elderly mother in law suffered a number of serious strokes. Even though she was very ill, she couldn't comprehend that her life had changed.

She still wanted to be independent, still wanted to show us she was self reliant. On the other hand my father in law is becoming increasingly vague; he has lost driving reflexes and is unable to process information quickly.

We soon realized that we needed to provide some care and safety to ensure that they could live their lives independently, or at least try to to the best of their ability. Here are some simple safety items that needed to be addressed to ensure peace of mind for us and peace of mind to my elderly in laws.

AMBULANCE SERVICE

The most important thing to ensure is that your elderly parents are members of your ambulance service. In some countries and states if you are not a member of the ambulance service, you could be looking at a bill that totals in the thousands.

We have made sure that they are joined and paid up-to-date with the ambulance service.

TELEPHONE

We obtained a telephone that had large numbers on its face for easy sight and use. It also had all emergency numbers programmed and important family phone numbers too.

ALARM

Contact your local council and see what emergency services are available in regards to alarms for the elderly. We had a system installed in the home where if anything happens and emergency services are required, they will be organized by the mere push of a button.

You can also have an alarm service that monitors your elderly parents. These can be expensive but do provide peace of mind to you and family. The service will contact your elderly parent each morning, or your parent must press a button each morning to advise the service that everything is okay. An ambulance or family member will be contacted if they fail to do so.

STEPS AND RAILS

Contact your local council department to assess the safety of your parents' home. We have had safety rails installed in the bathroom and toilets and leading down the steps at the rear of the house.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Always check the water temperature that comes out of the faucet in your parents' home. Make sure it's set to a temperature where they will not receive scolds or serious burns to parts of their body.

HOUSEHOLD OBSTRUCTIONS

When at your parents' home,

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