Americans 65 and older are far more likely to be injured or killed by everyday consumer products than any other age group, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says most of the hazards causing these injuries are hidden in plain sight. Americans over age 65 comprise 71 percent of consumer product-related deaths annually, despite making up only 16 percent of the population. CPSC’s comprehensive older adult safety report found that consumer products are associated with about 3,800 reports of older adult deaths every year, and nearly three million older adults visit the emergency room annually for product-related injuries.
The Top Hazards
Falls are the leading cause of injuries and deaths among older adults. But CPSC data shows that fire and carbon monoxide pose a disproportionate threat as well. Older adults have a higher death rate from fires than the general population, and cooking fires and clothing ignition while cooking are a major hazard for older people. Other significant hazards include:
- Bathtub and shower falls — wet surfaces, lack of grab bars, and reduced balance from medications
- Stairs and step stools — missing or unstable handrails, inadequate lighting
- Drowning — CPSC has reports of 100 drowning deaths per year among those 65 and older
- Heating equipment — space heaters left near flammable materials, fuel-burning appliances not professionally inspected
- Loose flooring — rugs, mats, and floor cords that are tripping hazards
A Room-by-Room Safety Checklist
Bathrooms:
- Install grab bars beside the toilet and in the shower or bathtub
- Use slip-resistant mats inside and outside the tub or shower
- Set the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent tap water scalds
Stairways:
- Ensure handrails are present and securely fastened on both sides
- Keep stairs clear of clutter and well lit
Kitchen:
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Do not wear loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves near ranges or ovens
- Store combustibles away from all heat-producing appliances
Throughout the Home:
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every floor
- Install carbon monoxide alarms outside every sleeping area
- Remove all loose rugs, cords, and objects from pathways and floors
- Keep phones and emergency numbers accessible in every room
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, visit SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Source: https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Older-Adult-Safety
