Memory Care Safety Tips

Making a home safe is crucial when caring for a loved one with memory impairment, such as Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.

These conditions can impact judgment, memory, and spatial awareness, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Creating a secure environment can significantly improve their quality of life and provide peace of mind for caregivers.

How to Create a Safe Home Environment for Memory Care

Safety in memory care starts with a thorough assessment of the home.

“People with Alzheimer’s disease may forget to turn off the oven or faucet, or even how to use the phone in an emergency.” — National Institute on Aging¹

Room-by-Room Safety Assessment

Area	What to Check For	Actions to Take
Entryways	Loose rugs, poor lighting, tripping hazards	Remove rugs, add lighting, repair walkways
Kitchen	Appliances, spoiled food, fire risks	Label controls, use shut-off devices, clean fridge
Bathroom	Slippery surfaces, hot water burns	Install grab bars, use non-slip mats, limit water temp
Bedroom	Trip hazards, lighting, space heaters	Use nightlights, clear pathways, avoid heaters

See our Home Safety Checklist for a detailed walkthrough.

Fall Prevention Strategies

“People with dementia fell more often than their peers without dementia — about 15 percentage points more.”²

• Mark stair edges with brightly colored tape
• Remove clutter, rugs, and loose electrical cords
• Install Grab Bars and Ramps
• Use non-skid mats in kitchens and bathrooms
• Improve lighting with Lighting for Safety
• Encourage proper footwear and mobility aids — Best Mobility Aids

“Good balance, a habit of standing up slowly, and non-skid shoes can help prevent falls.”³

More help: Fall Proofing Home

Kitchen Safety Tips

• Use appliance locks or knob covers
• Label hot surfaces with clear signs
• Remove decorative items that look like food
• Regularly clean the refrigerator
• Toss expired or spoiled food immediately

Bathroom Safety Recommendations

• Install grab bars — Install Grab Bars
• Use raised toilet seats — Toilet Accessibility
• Apply non-slip flooring — Non-Slip Flooring
• Set water heater to max 120°F to avoid burns¹
• Unplug and remove small appliances like hairdryers

More ideas: Bathroom Safety

Bedroom Safety Tips

• Install bed rails for support and fall prevention
• Use motion-sensor night lights
• Avoid space heaters or electric blankets
• Keep pathways clear
• Use room monitors if wandering is a concern

Simple Home Modifications That Help

• Use light-colored walls to increase contrast
• Remove confusing reflections from mirrors
• Lock up harmful items like cleaners or medicine
• Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working

See more at Home Modifications

Outdoor and Entryway Safety

• Fix cracked sidewalks and uneven steps
• Add motion-sensor lights to entrances
• Use fencing and gate locks to prevent wandering
• Add decals to glass doors
• Use low-profile doormats
• Install pool alarms, fencing, and safety covers if needed

Technology Tools for Dementia Safety

Tool	Benefit
Medical Alert Systems	Emergency help at the push of a button4
GPS Medical Alerts	Track location of wandering individuals
Smart Home Devices	Automation and remote monitoring
Cameras and door sensors	Alert caregivers of activity and movement

Handling Behavior and Communication Changes

• Stick to a daily routine
• Use labels, signs, and pictures
• Speak calmly and clearly
• Encourage independence when safe

Budgeting and Planning Tips

• Look into grants and aid from Area Agencies on Aging
• Plan finances early — see Financial Planning for Elder Care
• Use Eldercare Locator to find help nearby

Caregiver Health and Wellness

• Take breaks regularly
• Join a caregiver support group
• Practice self-care and stress relief

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Providing memory care safety is a journey, not a one-time fix.

The more prepared you are, the more confidence you’ll have in creating a secure, comforting space for your loved one.

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Explore Related Topics:

• Memory Care for Seniors
• Top Memory Care Facilities
• Memory Care vs Assisted Living
• Memory Care vs Nursing Home Costs
• Talking to Seniors About Dementia Care