Creating a Safe Home Environment for Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s

Understanding the Need for a Safe Home Environment

I’ll never forget the day my mother-in-love stumbled on a rug in her bathroom. We were lucky that day but we realized we needed to re-evaluate her environment. Sure we had done some simplifying of the home environment, but we realized that we needed to make even more adjustments.

Alzheimer’s affects more than just memory; it impacts cognitive functions, judgment, and physical abilities. As the disease progresses, your loved one may become more prone to accidents or confusion. Simple tasks that were once second nature can become difficult, and everyday household items may turn into hazards. By proactively making your home safer, you can help your loved one maintain a sense of independence and dignity while minimizing risks.

Start with an Assessment

The first step in creating a safe environment is to assess your home. Walk through each room with your loved one’s needs in mind. Pay attention to areas where accidents are more likely to occur, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and stairs. Consider how your loved one moves through the house and identify potential obstacles or dangers. Here are 4 tips from our assessment that you can start this weekend.

1. Preventing Falls

Falls are a significant concern for people with Alzheimer’s, and they can lead to serious injuries. To minimize the risk:

• Clear Pathways: Remove clutter, throw rugs, and any obstacles that could cause trips. Consider rearranging furniture to create clear, wide paths.
• Install Handrails: Handrails on both sides of staircases provide extra support. Also, consider adding grab bars in hallways and near doorways.
• Non-Slip Flooring: Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen. If your home has hardwood or tile floors, consider adding non-slip treatments to reduce slipperiness.

2. Enhancing Bathroom Safety

The bathroom can be particularly hazardous due to wet, slippery surfaces. Here’s how to make it safer:

• Grab Bars: Install grab bars in the shower, next to the toilet, and near the sink. These provide stability and prevent falls.
• Raised Toilet Seat: A raised toilet seat can make it easier for your loved one to sit down and get up without straining.
• Shower Chair: A shower chair offers a stable place to sit while bathing, reducing the risk of slipping.
• Bathroom Door: If you have a separate door to the toilet area, consider door swing. Our door opened into the bathroom which could be problematic if our loved one had a problem and could not open the door so we removed the door to that area.

Product Recommendation:
Drive Medical Shower Chair with Back: This chair is height adjustable and comes with a sturdy backrest for added support, making it a reliable choice for bathroom safety.

3. Securing the Kitchen

The kitchen is often a place where we gather, but it can also be a source of danger for someone with Alzheimer’s. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Stove Safety: Consider using stove knob covers or installing an automatic stove shut-off device to prevent accidents.
• Lock Away Hazardous Items: Store knives, cleaning supplies, and other potentially dangerous items in locked cabinets or out of reach.
• Labeling: Clearly label cabinets and drawers to help your loved one find items without confusion.

4. Managing Wandering

Wandering is a common behavior in Alzheimer’s patients and can be very dangerous. To help manage and prevent wandering:

• Install Door Alarms: Door alarms alert you if your loved one tries to leave the house unsupervised.
• Use GPS Tracking Devices: A GPS tracker can help you locate your loved one quickly if they wander off.
• Secure Doors and Windows: Consider installing additional locks or childproof locks on doors and windows that your loved one might try to open.

Product Recommendation:
Tranquil GPS Watch: This wearable GPS tracker is designed for seniors and provides real-time location tracking, giving you peace of mind.

Creating a Calming Environment

In addition to safety, it’s important to create an environment that is soothing and easy to navigate. Alzheimer’s patients can become easily overwhelmed, so a calm, clutter-free space is ideal.

1. Simplify the Environment

• Declutter: Keep rooms free of unnecessary items that could cause confusion or anxiety.
• Use Contrasting Colors: High contrast colors can help your loved one distinguish between objects and spaces. For example, use contrasting colors on furniture and walls to make them easier to identify.
• Familiar Items: Surround your loved one with familiar objects, such as family photos, favorite blankets, and cherished mementos. This can help provide a sense of comfort and stability.

2. Lighting and Noise Control

• Good Lighting: Ensure that all areas of the home are well-lit to prevent accidents. Consider using night lights in the bedroom and bathroom to help your loved one navigate in the dark.
• Minimize Noise: Loud noises can be disorienting. Consider using noise-canceling curtains or white noise machines to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Engage with Your Loved One In Creating a Safe Home Environment

Finally, remember that creating a safe home environment is an ongoing process. Engage with your loved one as much as possible in the decision-making process. Even if they’re not able to articulate their preferences, involving them can help maintain their sense of control and dignity.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, but creating a safe and comforting home environment is a powerful way to support their well-being. By making thoughtful adjustments and using the right products, you can reduce risks and help your loved one live as comfortably and independently as possible.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Take it step by step, focusing on the areas that pose the greatest risk first. And don’t hesitate to ask for help from family members, friends, or professional caregivers. You’re not alone in this journey, and every effort you make is a meaningful step towards providing the best care possible for your loved one.