When you’re a carer for a parent or loved one, your main concern is their health and wellbeing. Knowing that they’re safe and can deal with an emergency situation, even if you’re not there, can be hugely reassuring.

Accidents and medical issues are a fact of life. Although the home can be the most comfortable place for the elderly, disabled, or those with a medical condition, it may not always be the safest.
 
In New Zealand, statistics show that every three minutes someone is seriously injured in a slip, trip or fall at home.1 Over a year, that adds up to over 200,000 serious injuries. When it’s an elderly person who is injured, the result can be especially serious.

HOME SAFETY TIPS
Slipping, tripping or falling can easily happen. Looking critically at the home
environment and removing potential hazards before they cause problems helps prevent injuries. Potential hazards include wet or oily floors, cables, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting and items that form obstacles. Areas should
be kept tidy, and clear accessways established. Well-fitting shoes or slippers should be worn rather than socks.

You can also prevent accidents by removing mats and rugs, or securing them so they don’t slide. More tips can be found on the injury prevention section of the ACC website.

BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Despite all our best efforts, an accident can still happen. A little error in footwork or a forgetful moment can result in an injury. That’s when a carer’s knowledge of first aid is extremely valuable. Many New Zealanders attend St John First Aid
courses for this very reason.

St John is a trusted name and their First Aid courses help build confidence so that if an accident should take place, you can provide the important first steps to recovery.

WHEN YOU CAN’T BE THERE
Because a carer can’t constantly be at the side of a loved one, a St John Lifelink^TM medical alarm is the ideal way to ensure trained medical help is only a touch away at anytime.

St John Lifelink^TM medical alarms are unique because they are connected directly to the St John ambulance communications centres. Quite simply, when the button on the pendant or wristband is pressed, a St John calltaker will call back to check if your family member is alright. If an ambulance is needed, St John will send one. If no one responds, an ambulance will be sent in case it’s needed.

Medical alarms have been found to make life more positive for both caregivers and their loved ones, because safety concerns are reduced.

AFFORDABLE CARE
Organising a St John Lifelink^TM medical alarm for a loved one may be easier and cheaper than you think. Many New Zealanders qualify for funding through Work and Income. As an approved supplier of monitored medical alarms, St John can help you through the application process.

To learn more, call 0800 50 23 23 or talk to your GP. Being prepared will allow you to care for your loved ones while also being a little more carefree.


Congratulations to the 5 winners of the St Johns competition who have each won a free St John First Aid Course up to the value of $225.00. They are: Glyn Williams, Sharon Kennedy, Lynne Ryder, Ada Mary Jones, Andrew McGee

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1. Data on file.

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