Home Sweet (and Safe) Home

If you are caring for a loved one that is living with dementia at home, here are some tips to help make their home safe and supportive.

• Install locks and alarms on doors and windows to alert you when they are opened.
• Remove potential hazards such as loose rugs or electrical cords. Keep floors and walkways clear.
• Install grab bars and handrails in areas such as the bathroom, near stairs/transitions and down the hallway.
• Label and organize items in the home to make them easily identifiable. This can help them remember where things are and prevent unnecessary confusion.
• Simplify the environment. Avoid clutter and remove unused or furniture.
• Ensure that there is adequate lighting in all areas of the home.
• Provide supervision during activities that may pose a risk, such as cooking or using sharp objects.
• Consider using technology such as a medical alert system or motion sensors to alert you if there is a problem.

By implementing these tips, you can help ensure that those living with dementia are safe, supported and comfortable where they really want to be, in their Home Sweet Home.

Some sources for information and guidance on home safety:

• The Apartment-A Guide to Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home (Alzheimer’s Foundation of America)
• Home Safety (Alzheimer’s Association)