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They say home is where the heart is, and for many of us that’s true. Ask most people about their hopes for the future and they’ll say: I want to stay at home, and keep my independence, for as long as I can.

Dementia and accidents in the home

Diseases like dementia can increase the risk of accidents in the home, particularly when it comes to invisible threats such as carbon monoxide or gas leaks. Because dementia affects the memory, and our ability to reason and solve problems, people living with dementia are more likely to leave appliances on, or ignore an alarm or the smell of gas. The good news is, though, that with a bit of thought and some forward planning, it’s easy to make home a safer place to be for people with dementia.

5 ways to make your home safer

1. Install carbon monoxide detectors
   Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide – also called CO – has no smell and no colour. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include confusion, dizziness and fatigue – all of which can easily be mistaken for symptoms of dementia. So it’s essential that your home has monoxide detectors installed, ideally in or near all bedrooms, and at least one on each floor. Some models come with features that can help for people with dementia, such as extra loud alarms and voice alerts, while others can send an alert to a carer’s smartphone.

Want to know more? SGN has some great practical advice on what to do if you think there might be carbon monoxide in your home. ADSS can also support with information and free carbon monoxide detectors. Contact Kelly Chable, ADSS Home Energy Advisor.

2. Make sure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are tested regularly
   Carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly and batteries replaced at least once a year, or as recommended. Choose detectors with long-life lithium batteries or hardwired versions with battery back-ups so you don’t need to change the batteries so often.
3. Make sure gas appliances are serviced regularly
   All gas appliances – that includes boilers, stoves and water heaters – should be serviced at least once a year by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. Regular maintenance can prevent leaks and ensure appliances are operating safely and efficiently.
4. Use gas shut-off devices
   If you have gas appliances – like a cooker – and are worried that you might forget to switch the gas off, shut-off devices could help. These automatically cut off the gas supply if an appliance is left on for too long, or if they detect a leak. Find out more about shut-off devices, including lockable cooker valves.
5. Have an emergency plan
   Create a simple action plan for what to do in case of a suspected gas leak or carbon monoxide alarm, including who to call and where to go. Make sure neighbours, family and friends know about the plan and are ready to respond quickly if needed.

How ADSS can help you stay safe in your home

ADSS can provide help and support with all aspects of living with dementia. “We can arrange for free carbon monoxide detectors,” says Kelly. “And if people are having problems with their hearing or their eyesight we can refer them to the Kent Fire and Rescue Service. There are some great devices available, like a special pad that sits under a pillow or cushion and vibrates if the smoke alarm goes off.”

Kelly can also help if you think you might be eligible for the Priority Services Register (PSR). “The PSR is there to provide peace of mind and extra support,” says Kelly. “You’ll get advance warning about planned power cuts and help if there’s an emergency.” The PSR is open to anyone with dementia, as well as anyone who relies on electricity for medical equipment like a stairlift or a Lifeline personal alarm.

Find out more about who’s eligible for the Priority Services Register. You can also contact Kelly for help to register, and for advice on staying safe in your home.