Keeping Alzheimer's Patients Safe At Home

Caring for an Alzheimer’s patient at home can be difficult. It is essential that you prepare your home to accommodate the sufferer’s needs. Likewise, if your loved one’s Alzheimer’s is mild or they spend time alone, it is important that you ensure that their living environment is safe.
Not only must space often be reorganized, but every room in the house that your loved one will be using should also be made as accident-proof as possible. There are many basic guidelines that can be followed to help accommodate an Alzheimer’s patient. The following tips can be used as a quick guide on things to consider:

• Set your hot water heater no higher than 120 degrees.
• Are the walking pathways uncluttered?
• Can your loved one get up and down from the sofa or chair safely? If not, consider investing in chairs with straight backs, or an electric lift seat. Adding a firm cushion to existing pieces of furniture adds height to them, which can make it easier to use.
• Can windows and doors be opened easily and locked securely?
• Can the light switches be manipulated easily?  Motion sensors for internal lighting are a great idea. Night lights should also be used.
• Are electrical cords and telephone cords secured and out of the way to prevent tripping? Do not run cords under furniture or rugs where they can become frayed or damaged. Secure them with tape, not sharp tacks or nails.
• Throw rugs look great, but cause household injuries due to tripping every year.  Consider removing them.
• Can your loved one get in and out of bed safely? If not, consider purchasing an electric bed or mattress. A “trapeze” or grab bar can be installed as an option.
• Is the light accessible from the bed?
• Can clothing in the closet and dresser be reached?
• Is there a clear path to the bathroom?
• Can your loved one safely transfer to the toilet or bath? If not, install a safety or grab bars.
• Are there working smoke detectors on every floor?
• Have you considered a Medical Alert Unit?  A simple button worn on the neck or wrist provides access to help instantly.  And our units are available with programmable response options.

It’s easy to see how the list can be much longer, but these items are a great start.  Call us today if we can assist you with care or transitions at 704-909-7958 .  Or visit our website for more information at www.lknhomecare.com .