In The Media
Herald Tribune
An inexpensive installation could be the difference between broken bones or remaining happy and safe in the home as we age. Grab bars, according to elder safety experts, are one of the simplest yet most effective tools one can implement to improve safety while aging in place. The bars, which are usually made from stainless steel and enable one to maintain balance while maneuvering, can help reduce deadly falls, which are on the rise, and a $100 same-day installation could help you save thousands of dollars in
hospital bills. “Grab bars are the new seat belts,” said Fritzi Gros-Daillon, director of education and advocacy for Age Safe America. “There should be safety bars in every bathroom.”
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Today’s Geriatric Medicine
When facilities or organizations encourage and support their employees in pursuing certifications, they foster a work environment that values employees and their career development. “Certification programs and trainings are valuable to organizations to facilitate new skills and incorporation of current industry information into the work performed by their employees. For long-term care facilities and home health, additional
training programs can be incorporated into clear career path options, which improves employee recruitment and retention,” says Fritzi Gros-Daillon, MS, CSA, CAPS, UDCP, SHSS, Director of Education at Age Safe America.
“For individual employees,” she continues, “the skill sets are enhanced and there is a personal sense of accomplishment and support in the workplace as they uplevel their experience. Additional training provides new insights, new clinical information, or even a new technique to make the work tasks more efficient and effective.” Having employees who have completed certain trainings can also be utilized as a marketing tool and differentiator.
https://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/archive/MA24p10.shtml
Consumer Reports
If you want to stay in your place for the foreseeable future, the strategies here can help keep you comfortable—and safe—for years to come. Pro Help Starts Here: You may want to work with someone who has specialized knowledge in this area when evaluating and renovating. For home evaluations: An occupational therapist or physical therapist who works with older adults, a geriatric care manager, or a Senior Home Safety Specialist® can help here. Senior home safety specialists generally charge $199
to $399 for a home assessment. (Go to agesafeamerica.com.)
https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/home-safety/how-to-age-proof-your-home-a6207544241/
Forbes
Suffering a fall is a frightening concern for older adults and those who care for them—and with good reason. Falls were the leading cause of injury among adults age 65 and older in 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By managing personal risk factors and creating safe home environments, seniors and caregivers can reduce the likelihood of a debilitating fall at home. As the director of education and advocacy at Age Safe America, Fritzi Gros-Daillon provides guidance to keep aging adults safe in their homes. “The statistics show that stairs and living rooms are the most common locations for falls,” she says. “In addition, nearly 250,000 people fall annually in the bathroom.” Consider the following home adjustments to minimize such risks.
https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/how-to-prevent-falls/
Better Homes & Gardens
When you’re shopping for the best step stool, safety should be your most important consideration. “Stability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a step stool,” says Fritzi Gros-Daillon, director of Education & Advocacy for Age Safe America. “Look for a step stool with a wide base, non-slip feet, and slip-resistant treads to ensure that it remains steady and stable when in use.”
Gros-Daillon also suggests looking for additional safety features. “A step stool with a handle can provide an extra point of stability and support, especially for those who may have balance issues,” Gros-Daillon says. Other important features to consider are weight capacities, the portability of the step stool, and the ease of storage.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Aging in place is preferred by more older adults, according to Age Safe America. The national membership, training and advocacy organization says doing so allows older adults to have more freedom, independence, comfort and safety. They can keep controlling their lives and have happier lifestyles.
https://www.ajc.com/life/try-these-funding-options-for-aging-in-
place/GG2QYEUDMZBQRHZJ2WA5CCKFYU/
Columbia Business School Magazine
Advances in healthcare and technology mean people expect to live longer, better lives than they might have imagined even three decades ago. What opportunities await in the longevity economy? Among the chief concerns for aging Americans is ensuring that they or their loved ones have somewhere safe to live. Most people prefer to age in their own homes and communities, but many are not prepared, says Fritzi Gros-Daillon, MS
’81, director of training and advocacy at Age Safe America. “An AARP survey showed that about 85 percent of people want to age in place and 90 percent have done nothing to get ready,” she says.
https://business.columbia.edu/cgi-entrepreneurship/chazen-global-insights/new-old
Porch
Accidents in the home can happen unexpectedly and can have serious consequences. However, many home accidents can be prevented by being aware of potential hazards and taking steps to mitigate them. In this Q&A session, we reached out to various experts and asked for advice on how to make your home a safer place for you and your family.
Forbes.com
Walk-in tubs assist seniors by keeping them safe while entering and existing the bath, thanks to their low-entry step thresholds. Depending on its manufacturer, a walk-in tub can also include other safety features, like an anti-slip surface, grab bars, an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant seat or LED lighting. Additionally, many walk-in tubs offer spa-like hydrotherapy and other elements of relaxation for a truly therapeutic
bath.
A handheld showerhead makes bathing easier for those with mobility challenges. “A handheld shower can be an enhancement because it allows more flexibility for the user,” says Fritzi Gros Daillon, a senior home safety specialist and educator with Age Safe America, a training and advocacy organization.
https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/how-to-pick-the-best-walk-in-tub-for-you/
Today’s Geriatric Medicine
One of the most significant threats to our seniors successfully aging in place is falls. Accidental falls among the elderly have become epidemic in America and many people in the public health community view senior home safety as a significant health concern.
By the year 2030, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the cost related to these kinds of injuries to soar beyond $100 billion annually. Most falls happen in and around the home.
https://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/enewsletter/enews_0422_01.shtml
AAA Magazine (Northeast)
Getting older doesn’t have to result in giving up familiar surroundings. Aging safely in your own home may be a distinct possibility.
https://magazine.northeast.aaa.com/magazine/life/home/removing-hazards-around-your-home/
ADU Magazine
Aging in place is the decision to live in the home of your choice as you grow older. While on the surface this presents as a simple decision, it often has complex ramifications. Surveys by AARP and others indicate that the majority of Americans prefer to live in walkable neighborhoods that offer a mix of housing and transportation options. These preferences, coupled with the rapid aging of the population and the decrease of households with children are continuing to boost demand for smaller homes in more
compact neighborhoods. While younger generations are shifting to more spacious locales based on the current health crisis, the older generations are still looking at staying in their homes or downsizing. So small houses or apartments that exist on the same property as a single-family home, accessory dwelling units or ADUs, are projected to play a major role in serving the national housing need.
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California Mobility
Harry Moody, the former director of academic affairs for AARP, once said, “Everyone wants to live longer, but no one wants to be old.” Moody’s keen observation highlights the mentality of many older persons today. Provide Solutions That Allow Them to Have Control – Fritzi Gros-Daillon, MS CAPS, CSA, SHSS – Age Safe America
“You need to determine the basis of the refusal and provide alternate solutions in which the parents have some control or choice. Many times, there are unspoken concerns, such as financial or privacy about medical conditions, that drive the refusal. The inclusion of an outside professional may be the unbiased third party opinion that can mediate a change.
A Place for Mom
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in seniors 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).[01] With aging skin and decreased bone density, seniors often have difficulty recovering from falls physically, and the financial impact of medically supported recovery can be significant.
https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/home-safety-tips
Aginginplace.com
Staying independent is an important goal for many seniors, but living independently comes with risks, especially if the senior person’s home isn’t suitable. In addition to trip causes, look out for hidden fire hazards like blocked dryer exhaust vents. Everyone should have fire alarms in their home, but especially older people, who can be up to five times as likely to die in a house fire (per Age Safe America).
https://www.housedigest.com/1173351/easy-ways-to-make-a-home-safer-for-seniors/
Daily Independent
Age Safe America warns not to overshare on social media, which can occur through posting photos or statuses that contain information like your home address or place of work. Fun online quizzes, which are common on Facebook, also pose a potential danger because they may ask you to share your name, gender, birth year, etc.
https://yourvalley.net/stories/seniors-need-safe-internet-surfing-practices-too,361429
Fritzi Gros-Daillon, award-winning educator and nationally recognized expert on aging-in-place, is frequently invited to share her insights on home safety, design, and aging with dignity. As a Master Instructor for NAHB’s Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) program and Director of Education for Age Safe America,
Fritzi brings both practical experience and thought leadership to every appearance. Below, you’ll find a collection of featured interviews, podcasts, and articles that highlight her expertise and the growing importance of safe, livable home environments for older adults.
To book Fritzi for a media appearance or speaking engagement, [click here].