Aging in place can be comfortable, familiar, and dignified for seniors living with Alzheimer’s. Yet as the disease progresses, the home that was once safe can become full of hidden hazards. The good news is that providers trained in Alzheimer’s home care can offer valuable tips for seniors and their loved ones regarding room-by-room safety in the home.
Kitchen: Reduce Fire and Injury Risks
The kitchen is often the trickiest room to make safe. Unattended stoves, sharp knives, and cluttered counters are all hazards for seniors with Alzheimer’s. For this reason, Alzheimer’s home care providers often suggest installing stove knob covers or automatic shut-off devices, keeping knives and small appliances out of sight, and labeling cabinets with simple pictures or words.
Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the flooring. For instance, a rug near the sink or stove that once provided comfort for tired feet can quickly become a tripping hazard.
Bathroom: Prevent Falls and Slips
Bathrooms offer the highest risk of falls, particularly for seniors with balance or coordination problems. Grab bars near the toilet and in the shower make a big difference, along with a non-slip mat both in and outside the tub.
Alzheimer’s home care providers might also suggest lowering the water heater temperature to avoid scalding accidents and using plastic items (rather than glass) to reduce the chance of injury if dropped.
The Bedroom: Support Nighttime Safety
Nighttime wandering and confusion are common with Alzheimer’s, so bedrooms are a good place to focus when improving safety. A straight, clear route to the bathroom can help prevent falls at night. In addition, motion-sensor nightlights can light the path without the senior having to find a switch.
Another option is a bed alarm or sensor pad that will alert family members if their loved one gets out of bed at night.
The Living Room: Clear the Clutter
Comfort and safety can coexist in the living room with a few tweaks, such as using safety latches on cabinets and drawers, securing loose cords, removing low furniture with sharp edges, and anchoring bookshelves or TVs to the wall.
It is also important to keep walkways clear of clutter and furniture in the same place to help with orientation, as seniors with Alzheimer’s tend to use familiar settings to navigate with confidence.
Hallways & Stairs: Guide the Way
Hallways and stairways should be well lit at all times, and handrails need to be securely fastened to both sides of any stairway, not just one. Additionally, applying tape to the edge of each stair step can help with depth perception.
Entryways and Exits: Prevent Wandering
Wandering is one of the most troubling behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s. Door alarms, keypad locks, or even simple bells on doorknobs can alert family members if a loved one tries to leave unsupervised. Clearly labeling doors and hiding car keys can also help reduce confusion and risk.
One change won’t make a home 100% safe, but small, consistent changes in every room can help create a safer environment. Alzheimer’s home care providers are key in supporting families through this process by offering expertise on the changing needs that come with the progression of the disease.
With the right modifications, seniors can continue to enjoy the comfort of home while their family members have peace of mind that safety has been considered in every room.
If you or an aging loved one needs Alzheimer’s Home Care in Rancho Cordova, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
Sources:
- https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/alzheimers-caregiving-home-safety-tips
- https://www.alz.org/getmedia/dc740fbd-9cdc-4b64-b274-9fc9ee4ec64e/alzheimers-dementia-home-safety-checklist.pdf
- https://www.medlink.com/handouts/alzheimer-disease-home-safety
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