A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be a difficult, confusing time for families. There are many questions about care, treatment and the future in general. In the process of creating a care plan, the safety issue is often initially overlooked. The physical environment of someone diagnosed with Alzheimer's will require modification as time goes by. Once very familiar household objects may no longer be recognized. Electronic gadgets may be turned on and then abandoned or used inappropriately. Access to kitchen applicances can pose a potential problem. Caregivers must look at the environment with a new set of eyes, open to possible hidden hazards.

Here are some tips to help make the environment a safe place for your loved one.

Kitchen
•  Remove knobs from stoves to prevent them from being turned on 
   accidentally.
•  Remove any small or non-stationary rugs to avoid tripping.
•  Adjust the water temperature to avoid accidental scalding.
•  Remove any cleaning fluids. Do not store any toxic fluid in
   anything other than the original container.
•  Remove any knives and disable sink disposals.
•  Put dishes, cups and glasses on lower shelves for easier access.
•  Unplug any small appliances not in use.
•  All household outlets should have ground fault interrupters to
   eliminate the danger of electrical shock.
•  Remove any matches or lighters from the home.
•  Do not wax or leave wet floors to dry.

Bedroom
•  Make sure the bed covers don't reach the floor to avoid tripping.
•  Keep medications out of sight and well out of reach.
•  If on the second floor, place a stop bar to prevent fully opened 
   windows.
•  Lamps should be stable with easily handled switches.
•  Keep electrical cords tied up and out of sight.
•  Use nightlights in rooms and hallways. 

Bathroom
•  Use professionally installed grab bars and a shower seat in the tub.
•  Use colorful, non-slip bath mats in tub and on bathroom floors.
•  Remove razors, old medications and cleaning fluids.
•  Consider a hand-held shower head.

General
•  If your home has stairs, consider installing gates. Try to avoid
   the use of space heaters.
•  Remove any weapons that may be in the home.
•  Consider door alarms or three-stage locks to prevent wandering
   outside.
•  Consider enrollment in the Alzheimer's Association Medic Alert + Safe Return® Program.

Information provided by the Alzheimer's Association.