How to prevent hot water burns?
I'm afraid my mum will get burnt. The other day she turned on the hot water tap and didn't even remove her hand in time. She also fiddles with the stove and the tea. How can I prevent hot water accidents without taking away all her independence?
Your concern makes perfect sense and shows the care with which you look after your mum. Burns are one of the most common household accidents in dementia and, fortunately, one of the easiest to prevent with a few simple changes.
Why it happens
As dementia progresses, temperature perception and reaction time decrease. The person may not recognise that the water is scalding or may not remove their hand in time. Often, they no longer assess danger as they once did.
Practical strategies
- Set the thermostat on the water heater or immersion heater to a maximum of around 40 to 45 degrees, so the water never comes out scalding hot.
- Install mixer or thermostatic taps and always test the water with your elbow before bathing.
- Serve tea, soup, and coffee warm, never boiling, and supervise the use of the stove and kettle.
- Consider a kettle with automatic shut-off and keep hot liquids away from table edges.
What NOT to do
- Do not leave the person alone to prepare hot drinks if there have been previous risk incidents.
- Do not assume they will feel the heat in time, even if they used to.
When to seek professional help
For any burn with blisters, extensive burns, or burns to the face, contact NHS 111 or go to A&E. Also, speak to your GP about adaptations at home.
"I lowered the temperature of the water heater and it was one of the best decisions I made. I stopped living with my heart in my mouth every time she had a bath." — Anonymous Carer