Alzheimers Disease: Caregiving: Preparing the Home for an Alzheimers Patient

General

• Are there working smoke detectors on every floor? Remember to change the batteries frequently.
• Are there space heaters, electric blankets, or other fire hazards? If so, remove them. If they must be used, follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and keep them on a sturdy surface away from rugs, curtains, furniture, or papers.
• Is there a carbon monoxide detector? If so, is it working properly?
• Are the electrical cords in good condition and free of frays?
• Are there outlets or switches that are unusually warm or hot to touch? If so, have the wiring replaced as soon as possible and do not use them.
• Is there adequate lighting throughout the house or apartment? Consider using small nightlights to light up the hallways or bathroom to assist your loved one during the night.
• Are all of the small rugs and runners slip resistant? If your loved one requires the use of a walker or wheelchair, remove all throw rugs.
• Is the house or apartment free of insects or other pests?
• Are the plumbing and utilities working? Make sure the hot water thermostat is set to "low" or 120 degrees to prevent burns.
• Can the mail be retrieved safely? If not, arrange for someone to pick up the mail for your loved one.
• Is phone accessible to your loved one? Suggestion: keep a cordless phone near your loved one's chair or put it in a pocket/pouch and attach it to their walker/wheelchair (if applicable).
• Are emergency phone numbers posted on or near the telephone?
• Are all medicines stored in the containers that they came in?
• Are all medications clearly marked and stored away from children and confused family members?

Reviewed by the doctors at the The Cleveland Clinic Neuroscience Center.

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