Hazardous Products in the Older Adult Home

Abstract

Older adults appear to be particularly susceptible to hazards in the home environment. While some studies have investigated the hazards associated with structural elements in the home environment or specific products such as throw rugs or major appliances, we used a focus group approach to investigate the full range of products with which older adults come in contact and the hazards associated with these products. We conducted six focus groups in the Atlanta area, with 6–8 older adults (age 65–80) in each group. The group discussions were guided by several key topics, including hazardous products in the home and associated hazards. Participants also completed a product usage questionnaire, establishing the representativeness of the sample, as well as providing measures of product hazard perception and product usage frequency. By assessing older adults' awareness and perceptions of hazards through a naturalistic methodology, we provide an initial step in learning how older adults adjust to hazards in the home.