The environment, technology and you can help a person living with dementia to use appliances, stay safe, find things and prepare meals. Prompts and reminder devices, as well as a range of sensors, monitors and alarms are on display.

Mag Lock

Stand alone devices on display in the kitchen include:

  • oven guards to prevent burns
  • retractable or spiral safety electrical cords
  • mag lock – discrete way to secure unsafe objects
  • appliance and cabinet locks
  • velcro strips to secure the fridge
  • magi plug may prevent flooding
  • stove / cook top isolation switch
  • refrigerator isolation switch
  • simple microwave may promote independence
  • easy cook books and shopping cards
  • induction cook top
  • shallow depth fridge may assist to find things in the fridge
  • talking label / lid
  • notice board for important messages, prompts and reminders
  • knob cover to prevent oven being turned and left on
  • power point covers
  • clock timer
  • circuit breakers
  • age friendly power points
  • simplified appliances, such as microwave with dial or large clear buttons, kettle with safety auto cut off and retractable cord, signs with step by step instructions for use of appliances
  • regularly checked fire extinguisher, fire blanket near your stove / oven, wireless smoke detector
  • thermo mixing valve or hot water cut off device to prevent scalds
  • electric or gas auto cut off safety device for the stove / oven
  • plug in gas alarms, Vigil electric or gas stove isolation system, gas detector/ cut off device
  • flood prevention and detection eg, water overflow prevention device for the sink, pressure release plug, tap caps, slip resistant flooring
  • lockable cabinet
  • shallow depth fridge with the freezer underneath
  • signs with step by step instructions for use of appliances

Connected technology on display in the kitchen may support safety. Note the following:

  • Cisco phone (control centre for monitoring and information). The water flow is monitored and will set off an alarm after a programmed amount of time and water temperature is controlled.
  • home automation system
  • gas detector and cut off switch, plug in gas alarms
  • wireless smoke detectors
  • circuit breakers and cut off switches

    Some of the ideas are simple and inexpensive, whilst others require professional installation and are more costly. For professional advise regarding your circumstances and needs, please contact the Independent Living Centre on 1300 885 886.