The kitchen can be a dangerous place for stroke survivors with movement limitations or decreased sensation. Kitchens are often small spaces with counters and appliances that are difficult to access from a seated position. Hot or sharp objects as well as any type of object that is difficult to reach can pose serious safety hazards for anyone, but often more serious for people with disabilities.

In order to prevent accidents, it is important to consider every aspect of the kitchen that you will come into contact with on a daily basis. With some thoughtful planning, you may be able to feel safe enough to prepare your own food or at least be able to do things in the kitchen with some help. Some of the suggestions below involve major construction changes; others are simple organizational ideas that may make kitchen activities more feasible.

Using the Stove

• When stove controls are placed at the front of the stove, one does not have to reach over the burners to adjust the temperature. Push button controls eliminate the need to turn the hand or wrist if this movement is difficult for the person, but, on the other hand, these controls may be more cognitively demanding. Controls arranged in the same location as burners simplify the thought processes needed to turn on the correct burner. Automatic shut off controls can be installed to stoves to increase the safety for people who may forget to turn of the stove.

• An over-the-stove mirror can be used to reflect the contents inside of pots and pans on the stovetop so that someone in a seated position can see despite the height of the stove.

• A person with decreased mobility will most likely encounter obstacles when trying to use a stove -- obstacles that could be safety hazards if not addressed. Just as one may turn their bath-room sink into a roll-under sink, one can create a roll-under stove by removing cupboards or moving the oven so the stove can be accessed from a wheelchair or other chair.

• People with reduced sensation or less ability to detect temperature change are at a greater risk for burning themselves. Oven mittens or hot pads should have a place near the oven and stove for easy access. Although oven mitts and hot pads can protect the skin from burns, they may also make it more difficult to hold a pot or pan.

• A clear space near the stove or oven also needs to be available to place the dish quickly to prevent spills, which could lead to burns. A nearby cart with a heat resistant cutting board or a heat resistant cutting board to hold in one’s lap are possible solutions.

• A fire extinguisher should be within easy reach.