Every minute, someone 65 years of age or older falls. This causes reason to be concerned from friends and family. Do you know what to do if this happens to a loved one?
If you are at home, that is one thing. What happens if they are at work? Yes, elderly people do work!
More and more seniors are turning to work, many for health reasons. The mental health benefits such as combatting depression and loneliness for the elderly are common examples.
Worker safety is of top priority when dealing with the elderly. Surprisingly, older workers may not be as injured as often as their younger co-workers. They will require more time to heal, however.
In our guide, we will discuss the top ways to increase worker safety for the elderly. Let’s learn how to make the workplace as safe as possible!
Table of Contents
Match Tasks
Arthritis and hypertension are common issues when it comes to elderly workers. When thinking of worker safety for elderly folks, you will want to match their physical abilities to a specific task. This way, you will lower the chances of injury of older workers on your staff.
Elderly workers will need to work at their own pace, taking necessary breaks throughout their shift. This is especially true for those who are returning to work. You want to make your elderly employees as comfortable as possible in the process.
Think Ergonomics
To avoid pain in the workplace, your team ought to have ergonomics in mind. Chronic health issues will increase when elderly workers are required to sit for extended periods.
For a healthier version of the traditional desk, give your older workers a sit-stand option. Standing desks have become more popular over time and provide a wonderful break. Stress levels and fatigue are reported to reduce their levels when standing for work purposes.
Sensitive Ears
Are there noisy environments in the workplace? Something that may go unnoticed for younger employees may be of concern for elderly workers are noise hazards. Loud sounds will raise health and safety issues, creating a difficult environment to hear and communicate with co-workers. (Xanax)
Elderly workers have a higher sensitivity towards sounds. When thinking about worker accommodations, you have a couple of options at play. You can work to eliminate the harsh sounds or move the older workers to a different location.
Win With Elderly Worker Safety
As an employer, you know have a better understanding of worker safety for the elderly. Despite what people may think, older workers are some of the most qualified to hire.
When you accommodate those who are up in age, everyone wins. A safe workplace is one that will thrive in the end.
Whether in the workplace or at home, feel free to read our blog. There you’ll find loads of articles on how to care for your senior loved ones. You’ll be glad you did!
