5 Often-Overlooked Dangers in the Homes of People With Alzheimer's
Managing safety for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia can be daunting, because needs are constantly changing. The person may seem fine one minute but do something unexpected or out of character the next.
Here are five dangers that often catch families off guard:
1. Excessive clutter. It's a tripping hazard, as neurological changes cause your loved one to shuffle his or her feet when walking.
2. Old or extra medications. Don't store any family member's leftover drugs, vitamins (especially iron pills), aspirin, or other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- where they're accessible.
3. Electric blankets and heating pads. These can cause burns as the person's sensitivity to temperature declines. Don't use.
4. Garbage disposal. Your loved one may drop important things down it or place his or her own hands there. Better to disconnect and toss waste in the trash.
5. Doorknob covers. They're useful to deter a wanderer but a danger if your loved one needs to escape a fire or exit quickly in another emergency, so only use them when a caregiver is present.
