Dangerous chemicals, such as household cleaners, weed killers, insect sprays, and vehicle fluids, can seriously harm seniors. These chemicals are often kept under sinks or in cupboards and garages. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it might be easy for your loved one to mistake these chemicals for other items and consume them. Accidental poisoning is a serious concern for those with Alzheimer’s disease. Lock away or remove hazardous materials and chemicals from your loved one’s home to prevent him or her from making this mistake. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs should also be kept in a safe location to prevent your loved one from overdosing.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior home care. Turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer compassionate care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Adjust Water Temperature
Hot water in the shower or bath might scald your loved one. Seniors have more delicate skin that can be easily burned. Alzheimer’s disease might make it more difficult for seniors to tell if the water is too hot for their skin. Adjust the thermostat on the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Install Nightlights
The functions of the brain and eyes are closely linked. As brain cells deteriorate due to Alzheimer’s disease, vision can be altered. Install nightlights along walkways in the home to make it easier for your loved one to see and prevent trips and falls as the sun goes down each evening.
Lock & Alarm Doors
Many seniors with Alzheimer’s disease wander as the condition progresses. Your loved one might leave the home in the middle of the day or night without others noticing, which is extremely dangerous. Install locks inside doors as well as door alarms to alert you and other caregivers if your loved one tries to leave.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care service. Columbia families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Remove Stove Knobs
A senior with Alzheimer’s might accidentally turn on the stove or oven or forget the oven is hot and place a hand on it. Remove stove knobs to prevent this from occurring. Alternately, safety knobs and an oven lock can also be installed to prevent your loved one from using the stove or oven unsupervised.
Use Gates
Simple gates can be installed in places where your loved one might be harmed. For example, if your loved one is no longer able to navigate a staircase, installing gates at the top and bottom of the stairs may prevent a fall. Gates might also be helpful for keeping your loved one out of the garage or basement where dangerous supplies are kept.
If your senior loved one has Alzheimer’s and needs help managing daily tasks, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care. Columbia Assisting Hands Home Care provides reliable caregivers to help your loved one age in place safely and comfortably while living with Alzheimer’s disease. To learn about our quality-assured services, give us a call at 443-233-1245 today.