• black bathroom door handles

Aging Society & Alzheimer’s: Preventing Accidental Door-Locking

Although the world’s population is increasing, a considerable number of countries have entered an aging society, and the number of patients with Alzheimer’s disease is on the rise. According to data provided by the WHO, there is a case of Alzheimer’s disease in the world every 3 seconds. These “old children” often have problems such as memory impairment and disorientation. One common dangerous behavior is to lock themselves in the room.

Alzheimer's disease

Potential risks of locking the door by mistake

Emergency medical assistance is blocked: When the elderly suddenly fall ill, rescuers may delay rescue due to locking

Fire escape is difficult: In an emergency, the elderly may forget how to unlock the door

Increased emotional anxiety: Being locked in will cause panic in the elderly and even cause self-harm behavior

Caregivers are troubled: Frequent handling of door locking issues increases care pressure

fall down

Safety Solutions

1. Dual-Control Door Handle

External key lock for caregiver access

Internal free knob for easy exit

Discreet design preserves dignity

2. Smart Locks

Keyless entry (PIN/fingerprint/app)

Activity logs to monitor safety

Simple Modifications

Anti-latch bolts or magnetic catches

door handles

Selection and installation suggestions

Assess the elderly’s condition: choose the appropriate security level according to their cognitive level

Retain emergency passages: ensure that at least one exit can be controlled by the caregiver

Keep the operation simple: avoid overly complex unlocking mechanisms

Take into account fire protection regulations: ensure that emergency evacuation is not affected

Humanistic care: safety should not mean.

When designing a home environment for the elderly with Alzheimer’s, we must consider safety as well as respect their autonomy and dignity. Memories may disappear, but love and care are always there. With 17 years of experience in door hardware manufacturing,  IISDOO can provide these small but important home improvements to build a safe and warm life defense line for the elderly with cognitive impairment.

 


Post time: May-15-2025