Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
If someone you love has dementia, keeping them at home may allow both of you to feel more at ease. But while being in a familiar environment may be less disorienting for them, you’ll need to make certain changes to create a hazard-free living space. Here are some ways you can modify your home to help your loved one avoid accidents while enhancing your peace of mind.
As dementia progresses, it may affect how your loved one’s brain processes visual information. Adequate lighting can help them see clearly and make sense of their surroundings. Install light fixtures in any dimly lit areas of your home, and use high-contrast colors to promote visibility. For example, serve food on brightly lit plates, place bright throw blankets on couches and chairs, and consider installing neon tape on steps for easier navigation.
Loose cords and unsecured rug edges can create trip hazards for anyone but are especially dangerous for someone with cognitive and visual impairment. Reroute wires to keep them out of walking paths, and fasten rugs to the floor using double-sided tape. Keep walkways clear of clutter.
Inventory any weapons or items that could be used as such, and remove them from your home or keep them locked up. This includes everyday items such as kitchen knives and scissors. Cleaning materials, medications, and any other hazardous materials should also be stored in a locked cabinet.
Hot water heaters shouldn’t exceed 120 degrees, but many devices can be set to higher temperatures, which can cause scalding. Now is a good time to check the setting on yours and lower it, if needed. Even after just a few seconds of exposure, water that’s 140 degrees could cause third-degree burns.
Eliminate the risk of burns from kitchen appliances and other household devices, too. Install childproof locks on oven knobs, and place smaller devices, like irons and hairstyling tools, out of reach. The same goes for handheld tools: use locked drawers and cabinets to stow away anything that could become hazardous.
The shower can be particularly dangerous due to slippery surfaces, but you can minimize the risk of falls with handrails, a shower chair, and non-skid strips. Boost traction outside the shower using a large area rug, secured with an adhesive back. Place items your loved one uses regularly within easy reach, including their comb and toothbrush, and remove any extra products.
Up to 60% of people with dementia wander, which presents serious risks for their safety, and stress for caregivers. For exterior doors, install locks outside of your loved one’s line of sight, either up high or down near the floor. If you have a security system, program it so an alarm will sound if exterior doors are opened. You might also consider other solutions to be notified of your loved one’s movements at night, such as a pressure-sensitive mat near their bed or a baby monitor.
Finally, check to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Set a monthly reminder on your phone or calendar app to test the batteries and replace them, if needed.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia isn’t without its challenges, but knowing your loved one’s health is in the best hands with trusted providers can be a big comfort. Our primary care providers offer care for every stage of life, including chronic disease management services in both our Family Medicine and Internal Medicine departments, or search for a provider online.
Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.
SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hinesville, and Statesboro.
