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.