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A safety switch (which looks like a normal light switch) can be fitted to cut off power to the stove and oven when not in use. The person with dementia may still turn on knobs, but the stove or oven will not work.

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Independence can still be encouraged by putting items in everyday use within easy reach. This avoids the person with dementia becoming frustrated and taking unnecessary risks to reach things.

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Microwave ovens and metal don't mix. To avoid any mishaps, remember to switch the microwave off at the power point when not in use.

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Use non-slip mats on floor, in the bath and shower.

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Have hand rails installed next to the bath and in the shower.

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A floor drain for the removal of spilled water from the floor can assist in preventing falls.

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Sinks are available (for laundry and kitchen as well) which have a water level control outlet. There is an extra drainage outlet at the top of the sink to prevent overflow.

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Check for unsteady furniture and have it repaired.

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Avoid too much clutter. Ensure walkways are clear. In some instances, eg. where the person with dementia may also have arthritis or other disease which interferes with movement, furniture may need to be closer together so the person can hold on to it for support.

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Table corner protectors are useful in preventing painful bruising from bumping into sharp corners.

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Ensure the height of the bed is suitable for ease of getting in and out.

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Use soft night lights in the bedroom, if appropriate. Shadows are often misinterpreted by the person with dementia, and this increases their confusion. However waking in total darkness can also be frightening and the risk of falling is increased in darkness if the person frequently gets up at night. Leave a good light on in the hall and toilet at night.

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Beware polished steps or the presence of loose or ragged carpet. Have hand rails applied.

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If the person wanders, it may be appropriate to fix a bell over the door so that the carer can hear if the door is opened.

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Deadlocks need to be considered with care, as they can prevent a quick exit in an emergency. New types of deadlocks are available with a safety release mechanism on the inside, which allows quick opening without a key.

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Ensure the carer always carries a spare set of keys for all doors.

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If the person with dementia is no longer streetwise and therefore places themself in great danger when wandering, it may be wise to get the property fenced, and gates key locked. If possible, rather than try to prevent wandering, redirect them into a safe area such as the backyard.

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Have a current photo of the person in case they do wander away and become lost. This assists in the search for, and identification of the person.

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Get an STD and ISD bar put on the phone, to prevent the person making overseas and long distance telephone calls.

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Pre-program important phone numbers into the telephone in case of emergency.

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It is probably best to dress the person warmly rather than leave heaters on when the person with dementia is at home alone.

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While the person with dementia may be perfectly capable of ironing with supervision, when left alone it is wiser to put the iron out of sight and reach.