There are many important considerations to keep in mind when creating a safe home for a loved one with Alzheimer's or another dementia.
Below are 10 key recommendations:
- Be careful of objects that could cause falls. Rugs, shoes, toys, unsecured furniture, or loose floorboards can pose a fall hazard to people with dementia. Clear your floors of these items or any other clutter.
- Exterior stairs and walkways. Internal and external stairs in the house should have handrails or grab bars and be well lit. Cracks or loose stones in the driveway or yard should be repaired.
- Make sure there is proper lighting. Make sure that all hallways and different rooms in the house have direct, bright lighting. Use night lights and alarm clocks with clear lighting at all hours of the day.
- Install a safety gate for the pool area and keep it locked.Consider adding an alarm and pool cover, and outdoor cameras to monitor the area. Lock up all chemicals used to clean the pool.
- Secure cleaning productsStore cleaning products, including detergents, bleach, liquid detergent packages, etc., in their original containers and in a cabinet with safety locks.
- Furnish the bathroom. All showers, bathtubs, and toilets should have safety bars and handles for safe use and mobility. Use non-slip mats or stickers in and outside the shower.
- Pay attention to safety in the kitchen. Stove knob locks can prevent accidental burns or fires. If possible, switch to induction or electric stoves. Lock up knives and sharp objects.
- Secure medications and other supplies. Make sure medications and alcohol are kept locked up and out of sight.
- Keep sharp blades, tools, and weapons in a locked cabinet. Any motorized equipment such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers, etc. should be stored out of reach.
- Let technology work for you. Use a doorbell with a video camera that alerts you when someone leaves or enters your home in case your loved one wanders off. Install motion sensors and cameras that will alert you if someone is outside or falls inside the house. Install interior cameras and invest in a GPS tracking bracelet.
Source: Women's Alzheimer's Association
Check and adjust the following items:
- Quiet environment – Is there a quiet area where a person can stay when feeling anxious or confused?
- Are there signs/marks/stickers to help navigate the area? (Toilet and bathroom, bedroom, cutlery drawers, dairy/meat, etc.)
It should be noted that the inscription is prominent, bold, and in color contrast with the background. - Transparent glass doors should be marked to make them easier to spot.
- Is the lighting strong enough? Stronger light is usually needed to read and see the floor and space.
- Are there any surfaces that could cause slipping? It is a good idea to place anti-slip surfaces in the bathroom, on the stairs, and in the yard.
- If there are carpets in the house, it is a good idea to secure them to the floor to prevent them from moving and falling.
- If you have very colorful carpets or very busy patterns of illustrations and shapes, you should consider replacing them with smoother, less busy carpets and bedding.
- It is recommended that the toilet seat be a different color than the floor and walls so that it can be more easily distinguished.
- Are the seating areas easy to navigate and access? Are the chairs and armchairs comfortable to sit on and get up from?
- Are the door and drawer handles easy to identify and see?