Action plan to make the home safer

Written By Rani Bose

Creating a safe home environment for someone with dementia is vital for preventing injuries, promoting independence, and reducing confusion. It aids in managing behavioral changes like wandering, alleviates caregiver stress, and helps in adapting to the evolving needs of the individual. This approach not only ensures physical safety but also enhances the overall well-being and quality of life for both the person with dementia and their caregivers.

Making a Home Safe for Someone with Dementia: Room-by-Room Guide

  1. Living Room:

    1. Remove clutter to create clear pathways and reduce tripping hazards.

    2. Secure loose rugs with non-slip pads or remove them entirely.

    3. Ensure adequate lighting to improve visibility, especially in areas where your loved one might read or work.

    4. Keep emergency numbers and a list of medications easily accessible.

    5. Use contrasting colors for furniture and walls to improve spatial perception.

  2. Kitchen:

    1. Install safety knobs and automatic shut-off switches on the stove to prevent accidents.

    2. Store sharp knives, cleaning supplies, and hazardous materials in locked cabinets.

    3. Label cabinets and drawers with pictures or words to indicate their contents, facilitating easier navigation.

    4. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and ensure smoke detectors are functioning.

  3. Bathroom:

    1. Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower to prevent falls.

    2. Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on the bathroom floor.

    3. Consider a shower chair and a handheld showerhead to make bathing safer and easier.

    4. Set the water heater to a lower temperature to prevent scalding.

    5. Keep medications in a locked cabinet.

  4. Bedroom:

    1. Ensure the bed is easy to get into and out of, with a firm mattress and adequate support.

    2. Place a lamp, phone, and essentials like glasses within reach of the bed.

    3. Use nightlights to illuminate the path from the bedroom to the bathroom.

    4. Keep the room clutter-free and the floor clear of obstacles to prevent trips and falls.

  5. Hallways and Staircases:

    1. Ensure hallways and staircases are well-lit.

    2. Install handrails on both sides of staircases.

    3. Remove or secure carpets and runners to prevent slipping.

    4. Consider installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs if wandering is a concern.

  6. Exterior and Garden:

    1. Ensure walkways are clear and even to prevent trips.

    2. Install motion-sensor lights for better visibility at night.

    3. Secure the perimeter with fencing and locked gates to prevent wandering.

    4. Keep tools and chemicals locked away.

  7. General Home Safety:

    1. Install locks out of the line of sight on doors leading to potentially dangerous areas.

    2. Use childproof plugs on unused electrical outlets.

    3. Remove or secure potentially dangerous items like guns, matches, or lighters.

    4. Consider a GPS device or ID bracelet for your loved one in case they wander. Apple tags are very helpful to pin onto your loved one’s shirt and use for tracking.

    5. Regularly check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working.

Remember, the goal is to create a space that is safe, comfortable, and as familiar as possible to support the well-being of someone living with dementia. Each home and individual's needs are different, so it's important to tailor these suggestions to your specific situation.

Source: Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

Rani Bose