Marc Levine from San Diego, California provides tips for caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.Marc Levine from San Diego, California understands Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Marc Levine has been actively involved with the San Diego chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, regularly attends meetings, events and communicates with others caring for loved ones diagnosed with AD. Marc Levine has learned how to be a loving and compassionate caregiver.

Deciding whether someone with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can be left alone in the house is difficult. Below are some ideas Marc Levine has provided to make your home as safe as possible for AD people.

Inside the house

Display emergency numbers and your home address near all telephones.

Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors near all bedrooms.

Install secure locks on all outside doors and windows. Hide a spare house key outside in case you are accidentally

locked out. Cover unused outlets with childproof plugs. Install handrails on all stairways with safety grips and anti-slip

pads on the stairs.

Outside the House

Mark all step edges with bright or reflective tape. Restrict access to a swimming pool. Install light sensors to turn on lights automatically.

Entryway

Remove throw rugs. Use nonskid wax or adhesive strips on hardwood floors to

prevent slipping.

Kitchen

Install childproof door latches on cabinets and drawers. Remove floor rugs. Remove knobs from the stove. Remove flammable liquids in the kitchen.

Use a night-light. Remove artificial fruits, vegetables or flowers. Insert a drain trap in the kitchen sink.

Bedroom

Use a night-light. Use a baby monitor to alert you to any noises. Remove floor rugs. Remove portable space heaters. Avoid using electric mattress pads or blankets to prevent fires.

Bathroom

Remove the bathroom door lock. Place nonskid mats in the tub and shower. Install an extended toilet seat with handrails, or grab bars beside

the toilet. Install grab bars in the tub/shower. Use plastic shower stools and a hand-held showerhead. Insert drain traps in sinks. Lock all medications in a cabinet. Throw away any unused or outdated medications. Remove cleaning products from under the sink, or lock them

away. Use a night-light.

Living Room

Clear all walk areas of electrical cords. Remove throw rugs. Place decals at eye level on sliding glass doors, picture windows,

or furniture with large glass panels. Secure remote controls for the television, DVD player, and stereo

system.

Laundry Room

Keep the laundry room door locked if possible. Lock all laundry products in a cabinet. Remove large knobs from the washer and dryer. Close and latch the doors and lids to the washer and dryer.

Garage/Shed/Basement

Lock access to all garages, sheds, and basements if possible. Keep all potentially dangerous items, such as tools, tackle,

machines, and sporting equipment locked. Secure and lock all motor vehicles and keep them out of sight if

possible. Lock all toxic materials (paint, fertilizers, gasoline, or cleaning

supplies.)

If you would like more information from Marc Levine from San Diego, California, please send an email at marclevine5@gmail.com.