Safe and sound

Tarrant’s exercise will keep her nimble longer, cutting the chance of falls and injuries, said Trace Van Oss, associate clinical professor of occupational therapy at Quinnipiac University.

Occupational therapists also are focused on ways to support aging in place initiatives.

“We’re working on creating a safe environment to reduce likelihood of falls in the home,” said Van Oss. Most modifications occur in the bathroom, such as adding grab bars or a bench for increased safety in the shower. Brighter lights, a higher toilet seat and bed rails can also help, she added.

Aging in Place is defined as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In addition to safety measures, strong support networks are vital to aging in place initiatives, said Christy Kovel, senior policy analyst on aging for the state Commission on Women, Children and Seniors.

“If we are talking about older adults, you want to make sure they have an appropriate support system,” said Kovel. This can be a combination of family friends, and services required to help them function efficiently, she added.

“Have they thought of services they made need in the future?,” asked Kovel, again reinforcing the idea that, “Staying connected is the most important thing you can do.”

Connections include activities and people that contribute to an overall higher quality of life, she added.

Isolation, fall prevention and driver safety are major health issues, something best discussed in advance of the unexpected, a crisis situation that can lead to long-term care. “It’s a big issue,” said Kovel, of offering support for proactive future planning. SVCT can help seniors.

“That’s where we come in,” said DeSantis. The director also takes a early-morning phone call daily from one of the active members of SVCT, she said.

Sometimes, it’s good just to hear another person’s voice, said DeSantis, who asked the woman if there were others ways SVCT could help her.

Help with the odd chore, the woman replied, DeSantis said.

Sometimes, even a seemingly simple chore, can amount to much more. Even difficulty of changing a hardto-reach lightbulb can pose a safety risk, DeSantis said.