Alzheimer's disease: Safety

Because activities of daily living--including eating, bathing, grooming, dressing, and using the toilet--can become more difficult for people with Alzheimer's disease, it's important to modify the environment to make it as easy as possible for the person with the disease to live and function.
A careful evaluation of the home, especially the physical layout and the services that will be available to the person for support, is essential. Some patients can continue to be independent in their living situation if they have complete support services. Things that should be evaluated include safe operation of the stove or oven, and bathroom/bathtub or shower use. Therapists and social service workers who are professionally trained to look for potential hazards can perform a full home safety evaluation.
Bathroom: The bathroom can be a dangerous place for a person with Alzheimer's disease. As the person's ability to function decreases, it may become necessary to install grab bars in the shower or fold-down shower seats. Also, be sure to use nonslip floor mats and slip-resistant appliqués or tiles in the shower or tub.
Furniture: Simplify furniture arrangements. Make it as easy as possible for the person with Alzheimer's disease to navigate a room and get from point A to point B. Move or remove objects, such as a loose throw rug, that could be a tripping hazard.
Lighting: Be sure there is sufficient lighting. As people get older, they require two to three times the amount of light they needed when they were younger. Add the confusion associated with Alzheimer's disease, and you can understand how important it is to have enough light. However, too much light, especially when it causes glare, can be distracting and irritating.

General tips
Have emergency numbers (police, fire, poison control, and a neighbor's phone number) readily available in case of emergency. Suggestion: Write these numbers on a sticker, and put it on the receiver.
Have at least one phone located where it is always accessible. The person with Alzheimer's could keep a cordless phone in his or her pocket--this is especially important if he or she falls and can't get up to use the phone.
Make sure smoke detectors work properly, and remember to change the batteries frequently. Use a carbon monoxide detector.
Avoid the use of space heaters and electric blankets; these are fire hazards. If they must be used, follow the manufacturer's safety instructions, and keep them on a sturdy surface away from rugs, curtains, furniture, or papers.
Consider installing a medical alert or personal alarm system for emergencies. Professional systems link directly to a representative 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A person who has an immediate medical problem simply pushes a button on a special device worn around the wrist or neck, and a signal for help is immediately sent.

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