#DEMENTIA HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST HOW TO#
#DEMENTIA HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST PROFESSIONAL#

If they aren’t able to shovel or salt their driveway and walkway themselves, make plans for help ahead of time. Make sure your loved one has a shovel and salt stored in an easily accessible place clear of trip hazards. Slick conditions, common during winter storms, can increase the risk of falling for older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among adults aged 65 and older. Here are a few tips to consider as you help them adjust to winter weather: In addition to preparing your loved one’s home for winter, make sure they have a few provisions before the first ice or snowstorm hits.

Consider removing any rugs from entryways, replacing worn tips on walkers and canes, and ensuring that handrails are installed in entryways and bathrooms. The next time you visit, take a look around their home for any fall hazards.

#DEMENTIA HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST PROFESSIONAL#

However, it’s important to have that fireplace and chimney inspected by a professional to ensure it’s working properly and to reduce the risk of fire. Many people use their fireplaces to stay warm. Schedule chimney and flue inspections.In a multilevel home, there should be a fire extinguisher on each floor.

#DEMENTIA HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST HOW TO#

This is also a good time to make sure they have a fire extinguisher, know its location, and understand how to operate it in an emergency. Check all your family member’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working and have fresh batteries. According to the National Fire Protection Association, home fires occur more during winter months than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in over 16% of reported home fires and 20% of home fire deaths. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.At the very least, test the heat to make sure it will work when you need it during the winter. Before the weather reaches colder temperatures, HVAC systems should be checked and air filters changed. However, if your loved one still lives at home, consider these winter safety precautions for seniors: Senior living communities, like those offered by Maplewood Senior Living, provide maintenance services that allow residents to enjoy the winter without any of the work. If your loved one experiences limited mobility, they may need additional support in preparing their home for the winter. Home Safety Tips for Seniors in the Winter Our winter safety tips for seniors will help you prepare your loved one’s home for the winter and also ensure their safety all season long. The Mayo Clinic found that older adults are more likely to fall in the winter or at any time of the year than younger people, and are also at greater risk if they do fall. The winter weather also increases the risk of falling for most older adults. In fact, a body temperature below 95 degrees increases the risk of heart disease and kidney damage, resulting in severe health deficits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults are more sensitive to the cold than younger adults. While the wintertime provides an opportunity to try new hobbies and connect with family and friends over holiday celebrations, it also presents unique challenges for the senior population. As temperatures begin to drop, it’s never too early to start preparing your loved ones for the winter ahead.

Dementia home safety checklist