Follow
Share

Just want her to be safe and sound in her own home...

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Find Care & Housing
I'm not sure because when I got my Mother she was almost legally blind and never tried to escape or do anything for herself. When she had a fit over something, she would get up and walk from the family room into the bathroom and around the downstairs a bit. I made sure there was a lot of open space, no sharp corners, nothing she could trip over. We made her bedroom out of my downstairs office and modified the bathroom to universal design. It had a small shower that I put hand rails in and a bench. I had a great routine for getting her shower in the morning. I think I posted it here about 2 years ago. Quite efficient, step by step. I amazed myself with it. Lol.
I did not have to deal with her trying to cook or take the cat for a walk. I suppose I should be grateful for that, yes? Ok, I'm grateful. Things can always be worse.
One thing I did for the caregivers was to put her outfits together on one hanger. I continue to do that in the care home. My Mother was always very put together with her jewelry, etc. so I tried to keep that up until she was not aware of it anymore. Convenience and safety, any steps that can be taken to help you from having to think beyond the daily routine will simplify your job.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Mishka, you made me think of something that is important for my mother. Patterns can't be too noisy, so if I buy curtains or rugs, I buy them with no pattern or something very subdued. Noisy patterns make her feel more agitated. People may differ, though, so it depends on the personality.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

So much depends on her personality. Is she safe around sharp objects? If not, lock the knives and scissors away -- you can install a lock on the drawers. Put locks on any cabinet you don't want her to go into. Also lock away poisonous cleaners, pills, or anything that could be mistaken for food. This includes the tablets or packets that can be used for laundry.

If she is a wanderer, install a lock at the tops of the doors. If it is feasible, make it so she can't open windows without major trouble. Putting pegs in holes along the sash may be enough. You don't want to make it so the windows won't open quickly if needed, because people may need to get out if there is a fire.

Disable the stove by either removing the knobs, unplugging it, or turning off the gas. Keep heaters put away securely. If your parent goes into the freezer, put a lock on it.

There is really not much that is creative. It is pretty much the same as child-proofing a house with some modifications, e.g. real locks.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

BTW, many times electric stoves have their own breakers in the boxes. You can check to see if you can turn it off that way without disabling other things.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Hi, I would un plug the microwave when not in use and tuck the plug back, I would have all cleaners hidden -or in cabinets with child locks. Also there are plastic outlet covers you can use that are really hard to get off for unused outlets . Medicines should be hidden or out of reach. Scissors, knives the same. Ummmm, if your elder has problems with walking, like shuffling, I would get rid of throw rugs that can trip them up. Baby gates are good for elders who wonder at night and may fall down stairs. Plant fertilizers should be hidden-man, some of them look like pop bottles. Personally , I feel that it helps to have a house without a lot of clutter to diminish sensory overload. And yellow is supposed to help with mood. Yellow and blue, I think are good mood lifters and calmers. Get some plastic cups instead of glass and plastic dishes as well. -that don't break when dropped. Bendy straws are good for my Mom. Bowls are easier to eat out of than plates, I think.

There-that was my brain storming session for ya. I hope it helps!! If I think of any more I'll let you know. Good luck!!!!
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Hi , JessieBelle, that makes sense. Some curtains I have seen make me crazy! What about knick knacks? Do you think too many around are confusing. My mom has so much stuff in her house- I can't help but think it contributes to her anxiety. It makes me anxious!
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter