Education and Care - Checklist

Alzheimer's Foundation of America

  • Clear all passageways.
  • Remove unnecessary furniture, knickknacks, clutter and items that may cause confusion.
  • Fix loose or uneven steps, and loose or broken handrails.
  • Put gates at the top of stairways.
  • Install safety latches on cabinets that store dangerous items, such as knives, firearms, medications and cleaning products.
  • Place guards around radiators and other heaters.
  • Install secure locks that are higher or lower than eye level on outside doors and windows.
  • Eliminate poisonous houseplants.
  • Keep small objects that may be swallowed out of sight.
  • Make sure electrical wires and phone cords are secured and cannot be tripped over, and that lamps cannot fall over.
  • Remove or fasten down scatter rugs to prevent slipping.
  • Put nightlights in bathrooms, hallways and bedrooms.
  • Make sure light fixtures are easy to turn on, such as switches near doorways and glow-switches.
  • Use maximum wattage allowed by fixtures.
  • Reduce glare with frosted bulbs.
  • Ensure adequate lighting by stairways and passageways.
  • Remove stove and oven knobs when not in use.
  • Install an automatic shut-off switch on the stove.
  • Put away kitchen appliances such as blenders and toasters.
  • Use non-slip decals or mats in the tub and shower.
  • Install grab bars around the tub, shower and toilet.
  • Try a bathtub bench or a hand-held shower.
  • Keep the temperature gauge on the hot water heater at 120 degrees or lower to prevent scalding.
  • Remove locks on bathroom doors.
  • Outfit the individual with an ID bracelet or some other form of identification.
  • Obtain a wristband transmitter or other tracking device to locate wanderers.
  • Post emergency telephone numbers in large print near phones.
  • Prepare and practice an emergency exit plan.
Note:Don't leave someone home alone - even for a few minutes - if they cannot respond to an emergency situation.

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