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If you care for someone with dementia in your home, it is important to make the home as safe and comfortable for them as possible. The kitchen, in particular, can become difficult for them to navigate, so here are our top tips for making your kitchen dementia-friendly.
Label cupboards and drawers
Labeling cupboards and drawers can make it much easier to find what is wanted. This is particularly so for frequently used items such as tea, coffee, pepper and salt. Another good idea is to photograph the items in the cupboards and sticking the photo on the doors, making it totally clear what is inside.
Cooker safety
It is a good idea to fit an automatic shut-off mechanism to your cooker. Some newer cookers come with these fitted as standard. If you have a gas hob then a gas detector is a really good idea.
Avoid clutter
Clutter can be visually confusing for those suffering from dementia and can also lead to trips and falls. Store items safely away at all times. Ensure cleaning products are clearly labeled and stored away from other items. If there is a pet in the house it is a good idea to store their food away from other food products.
Kitchen Appliances
Wherever possible avoid stainless steel items such as kettles and toasters. Stainless steel can get incredibly hot leading to scalds and burns. Plastic kettles are a much safer option.
Use contrasting colours
For crockery such as cups and plates, it is a great idea to use contrasting colours. This makes it much easier to identify the food. Something like mashed potato or a bechamel sauce can get lost on a white plate.
Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in the kitchen and all bedrooms. Some alarms on the market will alert a nominated person such as a carer or family member. Make sure they are well maintained by checking them at least twice a year.
