Step
7. Check
the kitchen.
- Dementia
can dull sensitivity to temperature. Consider automatic
temperature-controlled water faucets.
- Install
an automatic device to turn off the stove after a set period of time if no
movement is detected.
- Unplug
the microwave.
- Make
food easy to find and reach. Climbing on step stools, chairs or counters
is risky for people with dementia.
- Store
knives and electric appliances in a cabinet with a childproof lock.
Step
8. Check
the den/home office.
- Wheeled
swivel chairs can be a danger.
- Make
sure bookshelves are anchored to walls.
Step
9. Go
outside.
- A
fenced-in yard will allow your family member to go outside. Make sure
gates lock.
- Look
for and remove hazards.
- Light
pathways and steps.
- Keep
walkways and patios clear of fallen leaves and branches, ice and snow.
Corral any toys.
- Keep
the grill locked and covered when not in use.
- If
you have a swimming pool, fence it in separately, and keep the gate
locked.
- Consider
an automatic rolling pool cover that is made to withstand the weight of
people and lock in place. Use the cover whenever the pool is not monitored
by someone capable of rescuing a nonswimmer — even if you’ll just be gone
a few minutes.
- If
you have an above-ground pool, a pull-up and locking ladder is a must.
Make sure it is properly installed.
- Use
a pool alarm with an electric sensor that will trip a loud, pulsating
alarm — outside and in the house — when anyone enters the water. The alarm
uses an on-off key.
- Handrails
and stairway rails help avoid slipping on stairs and steps.
No comments:
Post a Comment