How to make the kitchen safe for someone with dementia?

My mum still likes to "help" in the kitchen, but she's forgotten the gas on twice. I don't want to ban everything, but I'm also scared of a serious accident. How can I balance this?

The kitchen is, at the same time, one of the most dangerous and most significant spaces in the house for a person with dementia — often associated with decades of routine, identity, and caring for others. It's not about completely removing the person, but about making the space safe enough for them to continue participating with supervision.

Why it's important

Gas, fire, knives, and hot appliances are responsible for some of the most serious domestic accidents in people with dementia: burns, fires, and cuts. The loss of a sense of time (forgetting something is on the hob) and difficulty in assessing heat or danger make these risks more likely than in a person without dementia.

Practical strategies

• Install an automatic gas shut-off valve: or a gas detector with an alarm, which warns in case of a leak or forgetting the hob is on.
• Replace the gas hob with an induction hob, if possible: it cools down much faster to the touch and reduces the risk of burns and fires.
• Store knives and sharp utensils out of sight: in a locked drawer or a higher cupboard, keeping only essentials at hand during supervision.
• Unplug or switch off small appliances: toasters, hand blenders, or coffee machines when not in use, to prevent misuse.
• Use timers with an audible alarm: they help remind that something is on the hob, even if the person forgets the time.
• Invite them to safe and participatory tasks: peeling vegetables with supervision, stirring dough, setting the table — maintains a sense of usefulness without exposing them to greater risks.

"We swapped the gas hob for an induction hob after the second scare. My mum still 'helps' me cook, but now I sleep soundly."

What NOT to do

• Do not leave the person alone in the kitchen with the hob on, even if they seem capable that day.
• Do not store cleaning products next to food or containers that resemble food or drink.
• Do not suddenly remove all access to the kitchen without explanation — it can cause frustration and a sense of loss of identity; prefer to adapt gradually.

When to seek professional help

If several incidents have already occurred (gas left on, burns, near-accidents), it's worth requesting an occupational therapy assessment, which can suggest specific adaptations to your kitchen and the stage of dementia. In case of a burn, immediately cool the affected area with cold running water for at least ten minutes and seek medical attention if the area is extensive or deep.