Start with the essentials: reduce fall risks, secure the kitchen and medications, and put a wandering plan in place before you need it.
The path
Four steps, in the order that helps most.
- Step 1
Fix falls first
Clear paths, remove loose rugs, add night lights and grab bars in the bathroom. Falls cause more hospital visits than anything else.
- Step 2
Make the kitchen safe
Stove knob covers or an automatic shut-off, unplug small appliances, and move sharp tools out of routine reach.
- Step 3
Lock down medications
One locked box, one weekly organiser, one written list. Double-dosing is common and avoidable.
- Step 4
Prepare for wandering
Door chimes, an ID bracelet, a recent photo, and neighbours who know to call you. Plan it while it is still theoretical.
Advice to avoid
What makes this harder.
- Rearranging furniture into unfamiliar layouts
- Relying on a locked door as the only wandering plan
- Keeping car keys accessible after driving should stop
Quick wins
Do these this week.
- Room-by-room walkthrough this weekend
- Night lights in the hallway and bathroom
- A current photo and ID on them at all times