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The home is an important place for a person with Alzheimer’s disease. It helps her connect with the past and maintain a sense of who she is. However, some practical changes may need to be made to keep the home “Alzheimer-friendly.”
When modifying your home environment, it is important to keep a familiar environment. Too many restrictions can make it difficult for the person to take part in daily activities, and can seriously affect her self-esteem.
Adapt the task to the person’s current abilities. For example, a person who enjoyed wood-working may no longer be able to use power tools but may still be able to nail, sand and paint in the workroom.
Take a few minutes to complete the following checklist on home safety. Keep in mind that as the disease progresses, you may need to update your responses.
Home safety checklist
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| Do I need to store the scatter rugs and secure the carpet to prevent falls? |
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| Are the stairways safe for the person I am caring for? |
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| Is the person with Alzheimer’s disease able to use the electrical appliances in the kitchen and bathroom safely? |
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| Should the hot water heater temperature be lowered? |
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| Are there any medications, cleaning substances or gardening chemicals that should be locked away? |
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| Do I need to be there when the person with Alzheimer’s disease has a cigarette or should I hide the lighter and matches? |
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| Should I lock some of the doors or do I need to change the placing of the locks on the doors? |
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| Should I consider getting some safety equipment into the bathroom (i.e., grab-bars, elevated toilet seat, non-slip mat)? |
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| Is the lighting good enough to get rid of shadows that may cause confusion? |
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| Are there items that confuse the person with Alzheimer’s disease (i.e., pictures/mirrors)? |
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Resources:
The Alzheimer Journey, Module 2: On the Road.
Related information: Home Safety
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