Geriatric Ergonomics
Eight Dimensions of Health & Wellness:

Now we realize (wisdom coming with aging) that proper ergonomics increase human performance and productivity, while decreasing workplace accidents. Now then, imagine a senior citizen who is well-past their prime and measurable athletic performance years. Ergonomics for seniors becomes serious business to prevent injury, perform daily tasks, and to heal from surgery.

As the body and bones become frail seniors are open for accidents, and many of the slips and falls they have result in huge problems such as broken hips, knee surgeries or wrist injuries. A senior with a wrist injury may stop brushing their teeth, or stop eating certain foods or taking their medicine as they cannot open the jars or bottles. They may stop sending emails and get depressed as they are unable to email family and friends.

is why it is so important to be aware of these things and act accordingly. They will need shower seats, special handles in the bathroom, bottle and can openers, and a comfortable supportive reading chair. These are critical issues although they seem so obvious to us. Until you’ve had an injury or been without the use of a limb, you do not understand, but they should not have to go through the pain or hardship because you didn’t notice.

Often seniors do not wish to complain or admit they are having problems with things, they want you to not worry and they wish to continue their independence, but please it is up to you to talk with them and ask them about these things. It’s amazing what a few simple things can do to improve their quality of life.