(BPT) - Nearly 66 million people, or 29 percent of the U.S. adult population, are providing care to someone who is ill, disabled or aged, according to the National Center for Caregiving. And, according to AARP, 61 percent of family caregivers who are 50-plus also work either full-time or part-time. How can busy caregivers gain peace of mind that their family member is happy and safe while they’re working? There are easy home updates to help improve the safety and security of their living space.
Preparing a safe and happy home environment
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