Things You'll Need:
- Childproof Locks
- Oven Safety Switches
- Safety Gates
- Plastic Cups
- Plastic Plates
- Plastic Storage Containers
- Plastic Cups
- Raised Toilet Seats
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Step 1
Learn as much about Alzheimer's as you can so you will know what to expect and how to be patient.
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Step 2
Be sure to childproof your house the same way you would for a toddler. For instance, put a gate at the top of your stairs, put childproof locks on cabinets, and remove glass tabletops and other furniture with sharp edges that can cause injuries.
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Step 3
Remove any items in your home that a person could trip over.
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Step 4
Avoid using area rugs, which can slip and cause a person to trip and fall.
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Step 5
Keep the temperature of your water heater low to avoid scalding by burning water, which is a common injury among people with Alzheimer's.
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Step 6
Block off radiators with some type of fencing so the person does not get burned in the winter when the heat is on.
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Step 7
Keep your basement locked.
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Step 8
Clearly label any poisonous items, such as paint or cleaning supplies. Keep the poison control center's number on hand just in case an emergency arises.
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Step 9
Remove any plants from your house that are poisonous if eaten.
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Step 10
Remove the knobs on a gas oven, or ask an electrician to install a safety switch that will prevent an electric oven from being turned on by your charge. These efforts will help avoid a bad burn or a house fire.
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Step 11
Understand that people with Alzheimer's often lock the bathroom door and then forget how to open it. Consider removing bathroom locks to prevent this from happening.
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Step 12
Buy a raised seat for your toilet from a medical supply house to make things easier for a person with Alzheimer's.
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Step 13
Be affectionate with the person. Holding hands, giving a massage and hugging all have a calming influence and can help the person feel good. Studies have even shown that touch can help reduce behavioral problems among people with Alzheimer's.
