Home Safety Modifications

As someone taking care of a loved one with dementia, you've probably noticed that your home, once a comfortable, familiar space, now presents unexpected challenges. The good news? You don't need massive renovations or expensive equipment to make your home safer. Let's dive into the complete strategy.

Lighting and Contrast: The Foundation of Home Safety

Poor vision and perception changes often accompany dementia, making adequate lighting crucial. Here's your action plan:

Immediate Changes:

- Replace all bulbs under 60 watts with 75-100 watt LED equivalents

- Install motion-activated night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms

- Add under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen (battery-operated LED strips work well)

Recommended Products:

- Mr. Beams LED Motion Lights - Battery powered, easy installation

- Philips LED Daylight Bulbs - Bright white light that reduces shadows

- Motion-Sensor Toilet Bowl Light - Gentle guidance for nighttime bathroom visits

Color Contrast Strategies:

- Dark toilet seat on white toilet (or vice versa)

- Bright yellow or orange tape on stair edges

- Contrasting placemats under dishes

- Dark switch plates on light walls, light plates on dark walls

Walk through your home at different times of day to identify problem areas. What looks fine at noon might be dangerous at 6 PM.

Trip Hazard Elimination: Room-by-Room Checklist

Living Areas:

- [  ] Remove all throw rugs or secure with double-sided carpet tape

- [  ] Coil and secure electrical cords along walls using cord covers

- [  ] Create 36-inch pathways between furniture

- [  ] Remove low furniture like ottomans from main walking paths

 Hallways:

- [  ] Install handrails on both sides if possible

- [  ] Ensure pathway is at least 42 inches wide

- [  ] Remove or wall-mount decorative items that protrude

 Stairs:

- [  ] Install non-slip treads on each step

- [  ] Ensure handrails extend beyond top and bottom steps

- [  ] Consider contrasting tape on step edges

- [  ] Install light switches at both top and bottom

 Recommended Products:

- Duck Brand Cord Protector - Covers cords running across floors

- SafetyTac Stair Treads - Industrial-strength non-slip treads

- Command Strip Hangers - For wall-mounting decorative items

Complete Bathroom Safety Overhaul

Essential Modifications:

1. Grab Bars - Install these specific locations:

 - 33-36 inches high beside toilet

 - Vertical bar on wall beside toilet (12 inches from center)

 - Horizontal bar in shower at 33-36 inches

 - Diagonal bar in shower corner for extra support

 2. Shower/Tub Safety:

 - Non-slip strips or mat in tub/shower floor

 - Shower chair with backrest

 - Handheld showerhead with 60-inch hose

 - Curtain instead of glass doors (eliminates collision risk)

 3. Flooring:

 - Wall-to-wall bathroom mat with rubber backing

 - Ensure transitions between rooms are level

 Installation Tips:

- Always install grab bars into wall studs, not just drywall

- Use a stud finder and mark locations before drilling

- If studs aren't in ideal locations, use blocking between studs or hollow-wall anchors rated for 300+ pounds

Recommended Products:

- Moen SecureMount Grab Bar) - ADA compliant, multiple finishes

- Drive Medical Shower Chair- Adjustable height, drainage holes

- Waterpik PowerSpray Handheld- Easy operation, multiple settings

 Advanced Kitchen Safety Systems

Stove and Oven Safety:

- Install automatic shut-off devices for burners

- Use stove knob covers or remove knobs entirely

- Consider an induction cooktop (automatic shut-off when pot is removed)

- Install a fire extinguisher within easy reach

 Cabinet and Drawer Security:

- Magnetic locks for cabinets with cleaning supplies, knives, or medications

- Clear bins for frequently used items (easier to see contents)

- Lazy Susans in corner cabinets (reduces reaching and searching)

 Appliance Modifications:

- Automatic shut-off coffee maker

- Microwave with simple, large buttons

- Refrigerator with clear storage bins and labels

 Smart Kitchen Solutions:

- iDevices Kitchen Thermometer- Alerts your phone when food reaches temperature

- FirstAlert Kitchen Fire Extinguisher- Easy-to-use, mount near stove

- Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks- Invisible from outside, strong hold

 Door and Window Security: Preventing Wandering

Door Modifications:

1.  Alarm Systems:

 - Door chimes for immediate awareness

 - Motion sensors for delayed alerts

 - Smart doorbell cameras for monitoring

 2. Lock Modifications:

 - Install slide bolts high on doors (above normal sight line)

 - Use door knob covers that require two-handed operation

 - Consider keyed deadbolts (but ensure emergency access)

 3. Window Safety:

 - Window stops prevent opening beyond 4 inches

 - Keyed window locks for ground-floor windows

 - Window alarms for immediate notification

 Advanced Options:

- GPS tracking devices (watches, pendants, shoe inserts)

- Pressure-sensitive floor mats by exterior doors

- Smart home integration with phone notifications

 Recommended Products:

- GE Personal Security Window/Door Alarm - 120-decibel alarm, easy installation

- Blurams Security Camera - Motion detection, smartphone alerts

- AngelSense GPS Tracker- Designed specifically for dementia care

 Technology Integration That Actually Works

Medication Management:

- Automatic pill dispensers with alarms

- Smart medication caps that track opening times

- Pharmacy apps that sync with dispensers

 Communication Tools:

- Large-button phones with photo contacts

- Video calling devices designed for seniors

- Emergency alert systems with GPS

 Home Monitoring:

- Motion sensors to track daily patterns

- Smart thermostats to prevent temperature extremes

- Water leak sensors near sinks and toilets

 Setup Strategy:

Start with ONE technology solution that addresses your biggest concern. Master it completely before adding another. Too many new devices at once can create more confusion than help.

Creating Effective Visual and Routine Cues

Signage That Works:

- High-contrast text (black on white or white on dark background)

- Combine words with simple pictures or symbols

- Use familiar fonts (avoid decorative scripts)

- Mount at eye level (typically 60 inches from floor)

 Daily Schedule Implementation:

1. Create a large, simple daily schedule

2. Post it in a prominent location (kitchen or bedroom)

3. Use the same format every day

4. Include pictures alongside text when possible

 Memory Aids:

- Label drawers and cabinets with contents

- Use color-coding for different types of items

- Create "landing zones" for keys, glasses, wallet

- Photo labels for frequently used items

 Professional Assessment and Installation Guide

When to Call Professionals:

- Electrical work (installing new fixtures, outlets)

- Grab bar installation in tile or unusual wall construction

- Ramp construction or major accessibility modifications

- Smart home system integration

 Finding the Right Help:

- Occupational therapists specializing in dementia care

- Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS)

- Local Area Agency on Aging resources

- Dementia-specific home modification services

 Questions to Ask Contractors:

- Are you familiar with dementia-specific modifications?

- Can you provide references from other caregiving families?

- Do you offer warranties on your work?

- Are you licensed and insured?

 Progressive Modification Strategy

Phase 1 (Immediate - Week 1):

- Improve lighting throughout the house

- Remove obvious trip hazards

- Install basic bathroom safety features

 Phase 2 (Month 1):

- Complete door and window security

- Set up kitchen safety systems

- Implement visual cues and signage

 Phase 3 (Month 2-3):

- Add technology solutions gradually

- Fine-tune systems based on daily observations

- Plan for future needs as condition progresses

 Phase 4 (Ongoing):

- Regular safety assessments (monthly)

- Adjust modifications as needs change

- Stay ahead of progression rather than reacting to incidents

 Cost Management and Insurance Considerations

Budget-Friendly Priorities:

1. Lighting improvements ($50-100)

2. Trip hazard removal ($25-50)

3. Basic bathroom safety ($150-300)

4. Door security ($100-200)

 Insurance and Funding Options:

- Medicare may cover some durable medical equipment

- Veterans' benefits for service-connected disabilities

- State Medicaid waiver programs

- Local nonprofit organizations offering modification assistance

 DIY vs. Professional Installation:

- DIY: Light fixtures, grab bars in standard drywall, basic organization

- Professional: Electrical work, complex grab bar installation, structural modifications

 Emergency Preparedness Integration

Fire Safety:

- Install smoke detectors in bedrooms and hallways

- Create a simple evacuation plan with visual aids

- Keep flashlights in consistent, easy-to-find locations

 Medical Emergencies:

- Post emergency numbers in large print by every phone

- Create a medical information sheet for first responders

- Consider medical alert systems with GPS tracking

 Power Outages:

- Battery-powered lighting in key locations

- Backup power for essential medical equipment

- Non-perishable food and water supplies

 Maintenance and Monitoring Schedule

Weekly Checks:

- Test grab bars for looseness

- Check pathway lighting

- Verify door and window security

- Review visual cues for effectiveness

 Monthly Assessments:

- Evaluate new safety needs

- Check technology device batteries

- Update emergency contact information

- Review and adjust daily routines

 Quarterly Reviews:

- Complete home safety walk-through

- Update emergency plans

- Assess progression and future needs

- Schedule professional equipment checks

What's Your Next Step?

Identify the ONE modification that would have the biggest immediate impact on safety in your home. Start there, master it, then move to the next priority.

Remember: You're not just making modifications - you're creating a foundation that allows both of you to navigate this journey with dignity and reduced stress. Every small change you implement is an act of care that makes a real difference.

Daily News for Curious Minds

Be the smartest person in the room by reading 1440! Dive into 1440, where 4 million Americans find their daily, fact-based news fix. We navigate through 100+ sources to deliver a comprehensive roundup from every corner of the internet – politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a quick, 5-minute newsletter. It's completely free and devoid of bias or political influence, ensuring you get the facts straight. Subscribe to 1440 today.

Sign up now!

Check out my other newsletter for anyone caring for a loved one with dementia!