Coroner Warns of Laundry Pod Danger After Dementia Patient's Death

93-year-old Elizabeth van der Drift died after mistaking brightly colored detergent pods for sweets, prompting calls for stricter safety regulations.

Elizabeth van der Drift, 93, died from ingesting toxic laundry pods, aspiration pneumonia, and dementia.
The coroner highlighted the risk of dementia patients mistaking colorful detergent pods for food.
Current regulations focus on protecting children but may overlook dangers to cognitively impaired adults.
A prevention of future deaths report has been sent to key regulatory and industry bodies for action.
Recipients must respond by October 8 with measures taken or reasons for inaction.