Living alone hazard for East Texas senior citizens

Living alone hazard for East Texas senior citizens

By Maleeha Kamal

July 7, 2014

John Roop health has suffered for some time.

“I am almost completely deaf in my right ear and I have 30 percent hearing in my left ear. I am completely blind in my right eye,” Roop said

The 85-year-old Crockett man said he has spent his whole life taking care of others. First his kids, then his wife but seven years ago his wife passed away. Soon after his son then came to live with him but tragedy soon hit him again

“About three years ago my son died,” Roop said

Like many senior citizens, Roop was then forced to live alone. He moved into town just so he could care for himself, but it wasn’t easy.

“I fell several times but luckily I just hit the floor and not my head on anything,” Roop said.

According to the Center for Disease and Control, about one in three senior citizens fall each year. These injuries can make it hard to get around or live independently, and may even increase the risk of early death. As time passed living alone became a hazard for Roop. Despite the risks, Roop wouldn’t tell his family because he didn’t want to burden them.

Andrea Hill Director of Whitehall Rehab and Nursing home said it’s something that she sees too often. Many senior citizens think that their home is safe but it is actually a danger zone. Sadly, family member may not realize this.

However, there are a couple of things that can be done to eliminate injuries.

“Make sure that there isn’t any slip rugs. They need to have food in place. You need to make sure that they are taking their medications and that they are well hydrated,” Hill said.

She said signs that family members should look into alternative care is when falls become more frequent, their love one loses weight or becomes sluggish.

SOURCE:

http://www.ktre.com/story/25951644/living-alone-hazard-for-east-texas-senior-citizens

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