What can a naive ageing person who lives alone learn or buy to stay comfortable and safe?

• Fall-Proof Your House
The most dangerous thing about living alone for an older adult is falling. The Institute of Aging says from four older aged people, one falls every year. The frightening research of the National Council of Aging shows that a fall either ends in death or admission to a hospital.
• Have a Flashlight and Batteries on Every Floor
In case of loss of electrical power be ready. Have a flashlight, candles, a lighter, or matches on every floor in an accessible place as a kitchen drawer and your bedside table. Test the flashlight to be sure it works. Know how to reset the power-feeder in case of need.
• Keep a Phone Charger in Several Rooms of Your House
It’s a good idea to have a cell phone near you, even if you have a phone line. Be sure your cell phone is always completely charged. Have a charger everywhere in your home and your car. Get used to plugging your phone each time you go in a room; then, you do not have to worry about losing the battery when you need the phone.
• Make Sure Your Contact List is updated.
Have the recent phone numbers for the police, fire company, your doctor, and the closest family member on your phone. If you use a phone line, have the numbers clearly written in a list near the phone, so in case something happens, you can quickly contact the one you want.
• Make Sure Your Fire Alarm Works and Have an Exit Plan
According to US Fire Alarm Administration, in the homes where a fire alarm is placed, the risk of dying is lower. Be sure the fire alarm works. Test it once a month. Renew the alarms every ten years. Have a plan to run away in case a fire starts. Plan an escape from the kitchen, bedroom, living room, or any part of the house, depending on where the fire may start.
• Personal Medical Alert System
Wi-Fi and wireless cell phone service having an electronic sensor enables you to call 911 or a Mobile Help Response Center while you’re at home or work.
• Eye Drop Aid
Using eye drop is a chore for me. My eyes want to close when I want to squeeze the eyedropper; most of the time, I cannot do it. But by the eye drop aid, this problem was solved.
• The Squatty Potty
The Squatty Potty helps you sit better and flush out your large intestine when using the toilet. It sounds silly, but when you use it, you see how good it is.