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Caregiving: Making a Home Safe

Table of Contents


Overview

You can help protect the person in your care by making the home safe. Here are some general tips for how to lower the chance of getting injured in the home.

It is also important to be aware of safe temperatures in the home. When helping someone bathe, use the back of your hand to test the water to make sure it's not too hot. Lower the temperature setting in the hot water heater to 120°F or lower to avoid burns. And make sure other liquids (such as coffee, tea, or soup) are not too hot.

Protecting the home from fire and carbon monoxide

Here are some things you can do to protect the home from fire and carbon monoxide.

Preventing falls

You can help prevent falls by keeping rooms uncluttered, with clear walkways around furniture. Keep electrical cords off the floor, and remove throw rugs to prevent tripping.

If there are steps in the home, make sure they all have handrails, and always use the handrails. Don't leave items on the steps, and be sure to fix any that are loose, broken, or uneven.

Making the home safer for someone with dementia

If you are caring for someone who has dementia, there are some things you can do to help keep them safe at home.


Credits for Caregiving: Making a Home Safe

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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