If you are caring for a person with Parkinson's disease beware of sharp edges. Cover the edges of countertops and other surfaces with cushioning. Remove locks from bathroom doors, and install Ground Fault Interrupted electrical outlets. These outlets serve as protection against electrical shock by interrupting electrical current between a person and an electrical appliance. These inexpensive outlets automatically shut off current in the event a person's hands or feet are wet when they touch an electrical appliance.
In some cases, caregivers may opt to replace glass shower doors with plastic doors or a plastic shower curtain. Non-skid mats within the bathtub and around sink and bathtub areas are important to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
To eliminate confusion in later stages of Parkinson's where cognitive abilities are impaired, caregivers might use paint or tape to color water faucets red or blue to designate hot and cold.
Because someone suffering from Parkinson's may have difficulty grasping objects, it is suggested that soap to be used for bathing or washing be tied into the toe of a sock or in a nylon stocking and then tied to a grab bar within the bathing area. In addition, toilet paper, Kleenex, and washing needs should be within easy reach and accessible without a person having to reach for them.
Bedrooms
Because of an increasingly difficult ability to move around and adapt to sudden changes, it is important that all furniture throughout the house be stable. Rollers should be taken off bed frames or locked in place to prevent slipping. A person with Parkinson's disease who is confined to a wheelchair should lock the wheels on their chairs before movement is attempted.
Kitchens
The kitchen area needs to be made as accessible and user-friendly as possible for someone suffering from Parkinson's. Pieces of rope or fabric tied to drawer handles will increase access, as will such pulls on cupboards. Whenever possible, leave items between chest and waist level for easier access and to avoid the need for reaching or stooping over to reach dishes, silverware, as well as food in the refrigerator.