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Coping with Memory Loss

by John Nedden-Durst, North Country Independent Living

There are many items that can be used by a person with memory loss to increase safety and independence. This article offers assistive technology options for working in the kitchen, for taking medications and for remembering phone numbers.

In the kitchen, adaptive stove controls can be used to automatically turn off an electric range after a certain period of time or when there is an excessive amount of heat. The controls help reduce the risk of fire when burners are left on accidentally or when a pan is left cooking on the stove and forgotten by the user. Unfortunately, these controls do not work with a gas range. Another option is to use a microwave that has pre-set times. Taping over manual programming buttons to prevent overheating, fires or burning of food might be a good idea.

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Last Revised: July 12, 2010