HOW TO MAKE HOME SAFER FOR PATIENTS WITH ALZHEIMER'S

By Ellen Scharaga, Melville NY

INTRODUCTION As an operational consultant for Alegria

Specialty Pharmacy, Ellen Scharaga is responsible for developing cutting-edge specialty medications to treat chronic conditions such as HIV, hepatitis C, multiple sclerosis, and arthritis. Outside of work, Ellen Scharaga provides support to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer's can be a daunting task, and physical safety can be a constant concern.

PATIENTS WITH ALZHEIMER'S Some tips to improve safety around the home include

mounting smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in all bedrooms and in the kitchen, placing emergency phone numbers (poison control, doctor, hospital, etc.) next to all phones, installing safety knobs on the stove as well as an automatic shut-off switch, and inserting childproof plugs in open electrical outlets.

In addition, you should either lock up or remove from the home potentially dangerous items such as medicines, alcohol, dangerous chemicals (bleach, gasoline, paint thinner, etc.), guns, knives, and scissors. Removing clutter and small throw rugs and installing safety handrails and gates also can make the home safer.