Refrigerator should be checked frequently for food spoilage. In many cases, people suffering from various stages of Alzheimer's may be unable to distinguish between fresh and rotten food. Sense of taste and smell may also be altered due to medications.
Gardening tools, gasoline and equipment normally stored in tool sheds or garages should be placed in a secured area to prevent accidents; the car keys and keys to larger pieces of home or yard maintenance equipment should be stored in a protected location.
Ensuring Safety Inside the Home
Family members see rugs and carpets as home decorations, but the caregiver often sees those very same rugs and carpets as potential fall hazards. Many times, older people are extremely reluctant to change things, but by using firm yet gentle explanations, caregivers may successfully eradicate potential hazardous situations from a home. Top-heavy floor lamps and cords should be placed against walls or underneath carpets. Caregivers can discuss such issues with their loved ones and gain their cooperation and help of other family members to help remove clutter to make the home a safer living environment.
Those suffering from Alzheimer's may experience vision complications. Depth perception, as well as the ability to distinguish colors is often compromised as stages of Alzheimer's progress. Whenever possible, using color contrast when it comes to rugs, floor covering, bedding, and window coverings will help a patient to perceive space and depth within the home. Many Alzheimer's also patients experience difficulty seeing dark objects, as they are often perceived as large, black holes. It is recommended that caregivers avoid wearing black or very dark brown colors, as it may cause agitation and anxiety in the patient for that very reason.
Child-proof locks can be placed on cabinets within the house and doorknob covers used on doors that provide access to areas that cannot be locked for practical purposes. Deadbolts placed near the top or near the base of exterior doors will help to ensure the safety of your loved one.
