Care to be safe: How to keep your home safe for your elder loved one

Care to be safe: How to keep your home safe for your elder loved one

The value of giving in-home care for people with dementia is that they are able to enjoy life in a safe and familiar space that they have grown very fond of.

In our past features, we’ve talked about how home is the best place for letting your loved ones live life to the fullest through in-home care. As we discussed, when elders can move around freely in an environment that they are familiar with, the family can rest assured that the needs of their loved one are well taken cared of.

Watch the video below to find out more:

In this case, home safety should be on top of your priorities as you transition into full-time in-home dementia care for the senior users of your family.

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

A. IN THE LIVING ROOM

• Take away clutter. Put away plastic bags, cords, toys, or other items that may become potential trip hazards. Keep walking paths clear at all times.

• Mark glass doors clearly with decals at eye level to avoid any accident. Do the same for windows and furniture.

• Never leave people with dementia alone near a fireplace.

B. IN THE BATHROOM

• Place grab bars near the toilet, the bathtub, and the shower to help people with dementia move with ease.

• Always have a shower chair ready.

• Use non-skid trips or shower mats in the bathtub and in the shower to avoid any slipping incidents.

• Put a rubber faucet cover in the bathtub to help prevent serious injury if the person with dementia falls or slips.

• Keep hazardous chemicals and electrical appliances out of reach at all times.

• Remove the door locks to prevent the person with dementia from locking themselves in our out of the bathroom.

C. IN THE KITCHEN

• Keep sharp objects and potentially dangerous appliances stowed away at all times.

• Use safety knobs on the stove to prevent any fire incidents.

• Remove fancy magnets on the refrigerator

D. IN THE BEDROOM

• You may want to use a baby monitor to help you check the status and condition of your loved one with dementia from time to time.

• Put away any heating devices like portable space heaters, electric blankets, or heating pads. If these items have to be used, make sure that these are not used alone by your loved one suffering from dementia.

E. IN THE GARAGE/SHED/BASEMENT:

• Make sure that any potentially dangerous items and chemicals are stowed away and always safely stored.

• Lock all vehicles (e.g. cars, tractors, bikes, etc), particularly items that were frequently used by people with dementia.

• Install lights on stairs and steps. Make sure that handrails are safe and secure.

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Sustaining Happiness in the Elderly Care through Touch Therapy