Is It Safe To Leave The Person With Alzheimer’s Alone
This issue needs careful evaluation and is certainly a safety concern. The following points may help you decide.
Does the person with Alzheimer’s:
- Become confused or unpredictable under stress?
- Recognize a dangerous situation, for example, fire?
- Know how to use the telephone in an emergency?
- Know how to get help?
- Stay content within the home?
- Wander and become disoriented?
- Show signs of agitation, depression, or withdrawal when left alone for any period of time?
- Attempt to pursue former interests or hobbies that might now warrant supervision, such as cooking, appliance repair, or woodworking?
Changes To The Environment For People With Dementia
Solving problems involves continual assessment and planning. Principles you can use to guide any changes to the environment of a person with dementia include:
- Involve the person with dementia in identifying problems and deciding on changes to their environment, where possible.
- Make sure that modifications suit that person.
- Respond to specific problems dont introduce standard modifications.
- Change as little as possible keep the familiar.
- Build on strengths and maximise their independence.
- Try simple solutions first.
If You Choose An Assisted Living Facility
Taking care of a loved one with dementia or Alzheimers at home may seem like an overwhelming endeavor, but with creative solutions, you can develop a safe environment in the home. You dont have a full-time staff, ResidentGuard wander management system, or an access control system to keep your loved one safe. Its up to you to take the time to secure your home and implement necessary changes to make it safe for your family member to live in.
If you decide that the safest place for your loved one is at an elder care facility, make sure you choose one with safety systems in place. Ask questions about the safety measures being taken to protect residents from wandering. Learn more about resident safety in senior care communities and hospitals by visiting the website of Accutech Healthcare Security Solutions.
Also Check: What Do Dementia Patients Think
For Equipment Repair And Return
If your equipment breaks down, or you no longer have a need for it you should go back to the people who supplied it. Equipment owned by either the Ministry of Health or ACC can be repaired at no cost through Accessable or Enable. Privately owned equipment can also be repaired, but will incur a charge to the owner for repair costs. The most likely options are:
- ) 0800 17 1981 for people living in the rest of New Zealand.
- Your local DHB.
Smart Home Security Systems Can Help Prevent Or Spot Dementia Wandering
One of the most common hazards faced by people diagnosed with dementia is their tendency to wander. The Mayo Clinic explains that individuals tend to wander for many reasons.
They may be attempting to leave a stressful or frightening situation or may be searching for a person or object. In other cases, they might be attempting to follow previous routines like going to work or shopping. They may even simply be bored and searching for stimulation. Regardless of the reason, people who are diagnosed with Alzheimers or another type of dementia may become disoriented or lost, and they can face extreme danger. Exposure to the elements, traffic, and dangerous animals or humans can lead to tragic results.
Several smart home security devices can help reduce the dangers associated with dementia wandering. Door and window sensors, like those provided by Frontpoint, will notify caregivers when doors or windows are opened at unexpected times. In addition to monitoring the homes openings, the sensors can also be placed on interior doors, such as medicine cabinets, basement doors, or any other object that opens and closes and needs to be monitored.
Recommended Reading: Can You Get Dementia From Anesthesia
Mckesson Glow In The Dark Folding T
This folding cane from McKesson is specifically designed for nighttime use. It’s ergonomic, can support up to 300 pounds, and is capable of maneuvering narrow areas, like staircases.
We hope youve found these bedroom safety tips helpful. If you have questions about making your home environment safer, please reach out to our friendly Care Specialists. Call 855-1666 during normal business hours or send an email to .
Living At Home With Alzheimers Disease Can Stay Safer With Simple Precautionsand The Latest In Smart Home Security Technology
Some patients suffering from the early onset of Alzheimers disease or other forms of dementia choose to continue living in their own homes, but this presents unique challenges. Their loved ones and caregivers may feel helpless to protect them from such dangers as fires, accidents, and the possibility of dementia wandering.
While you may assume that individuals would be better off moving to a nursing home or an assisted living facility, recent research suggests otherwise, in some cases. Many patients with milder Alzheimers disease or dementia symptoms benefit from remaining in their homes, as long as they have committed, compassionate, and attentive caregivers.
Even the most conscientious caregivers, however, cannot maintain vigilance 24 hours a day. During the periods when theyre left alone, Alzheimers disease and dementia sufferers are particularly vulnerable to many common household hazards. Fortunately, there are solutions which can reduce some risks and help people enjoy the comforts of home for as long as possible.
This article provides information from leading experts on Alzheimers and dementia care for caregivers who wish to allow loved ones to remain in their own homesfor as long as it is safe and practical to do so.
Read Also: What Happens To Brain In Alzheimer’s Disease
Ensure Safety In The Kitchen
Kitchens, of course, can present all sorts of potential hazards, from sharp utensils to open flames. Even households without those suffering from Alzheimers or dementia understand the need for commonsense safety precautions while preparing food or performing other tasks. Because your loved ones may insist on attempting to prepare food themselves, it is essential to provide safeguards and supervision of dangerous cooking.
The following measures suggested by experts can also help make the kitchen less dangerous:
- Make sure access to the stove is protected with safety knobs and an automatic shut-off switch.
- You can install childproof latches on drawers and cabinets and remove knives and other sharp utensils and tools.
- Remove food-shaped refrigerator magnets, artificial fruits, and any other non-edible items that may cause confusion.
- Disconnect garbage disposals.
In many homes, kitchens can become repositories for all manner of household odds and ends, some of which could prove to be choking, tripping, or cutting hazards. Empty out all kitchen junk drawers, store needed items in a secure place, and discard the rest.
The less clutter the better, even inside drawers and cabinets. Decluttering drawers and cabinets throughout the house also provides an opportunity to discover hidden or forgotten sources of danger, like caustic cleaning products or even weapons.
> > > 1 Crazy Morning Recipe To Stop Brain Disease
Certain medications can also affect memory. A lack of sleep and an impaired thyroid function can negatively affect memory. Some of these conditions can also lead to a decreased ability to remember events. In addition to these, natural aging can affect brain function, and may lead to a slowdown in memory. Although this symptom does not necessarily mean that youre losing your memory, it could indicate a problem with your cognitive ability. If you are suffering from either, a medical evaluation is necessary to determine if youre suffering from memory loss. Alzheimers Home Safety Products
In addition to aging, medications can affect memory. Certain antidepressants, anxiety medications, and sleep disorders can all affect memory. A persons mental health can also contribute to memory problems. In some cases, a persons mental state may be affected by the medication they are taking. Some untreated medical conditions can lead to deterioration of the brain and affect the ability to learn and remember. It is also important to see a medical professional if your symptoms persist even after youve stopped taking certain medications.
You May Like: Is Dementia Caused By Depression
Implement Safety Measures Throughout The Home
You want to think about what could be dangerous for an Alzheimers patient. For example, if your loved one has memory issues, they may forget that they already took their medication that day. You will want to lock up medications so they cant accidentally overdose. Thinking carefully about what could go wrong will help you install safety mechanisms throughout your home.
Here are some more safety tips you could choose to implement at your house to keep your elderly family member safe:
- Write important and emergency phone numbers down in a place where everyone can see them.
- Install safety latches on cabinets and drawers.
- Lock up dangerous items, such as medications, power tools, firearms, matches, household cleaners, etc.
- Remove tripping hazards, such as rugs.
- Install safety knobs and automatic shut-off switches.
- Put timers or sensors on lights.
- Eliminate clutter.
- Make sure all exterior windows and doors have secure locks, and install alarms that will alert you if any access points have been breached.
- Install a locking gate around a swimming pool.
- Consider placing night-lights throughout the home.
For additional information about Alzheimers disease, dementia, and safety, visit the National Institute on Aging.
Safety Inside The Home For People With Dementia
The best living environment for a person with dementia is one that helps them to be as happy and independent as possible. Familiarity with environment and routines is important for a person with dementia. The home environment should help them know where they are and help them find where they want to go. Changes in the environment may add to confusion and disorientation.
Some tips for making the home a safe environment for the person with dementia include:
Read Also: Do Dementia Patients Get Headaches
Reduce The Risk Of Falls
According to the National Safety Council, which promotes National Home Safety Month, falling is the third leading cause of unintentional-injury-related death over all age groups, but its the #1 cause of death for those 65 and older.
Therefore, the #1 thing you can do to create a safe environment is to reduce the risk of falls. Read through the National Safety Councils tip sheet on reducing falls in your home, which include common sense solutions, such as creating uncluttered walking paths by removing trip hazards, such as area rugs and small tables and furniture.
What Changes Should Be Made To Create A Safer Home For A Person With Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimers disease affects a persons memory, causes confusion, impairs sound decision-making, causes balance problems, and leads to some behavior and personality changes.
The symptoms of Alzheimers disease worsen over time. Each individuals course of disease is different. However, one thing is for certain the living space of a person with Alzheimers disease can be a dangerous place.
Below are some tips for creating a safer living environment for a person with Alzheimers disease. Not all of these tips need to be acted upon immediately. Reassess your loved one often and take any additional precautions as you see changes in your loved ones abilities and behavior.
General safety tips
Kitchen safety
- Disable appliances that may pose a hazard. For example, consider unplugging the stove or removing the on/off knobs of various appliances.
- Disconnect the garbage disposal.
- Remove fake fruit and vegetable decorations that could be mistaken as edible.
Bathroom safety
- Install grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet to provide additional support.
- Install a fold-down shower seat or place a freestanding shower seat in the shower or tub.
- Apply non-slip floor mats and slip-resistant appliqués or tiles in the shower or tub.
Bedroom safety
- Avoid the use of space heaters and electric blankets these are fire hazards.
Living room safety
Lighting
Medications
Driving
Tips for people who wander
Other tips for creating a calm and peaceful living environment
You May Like: Can You Get Tested For Alzheimer’s Gene
The Alzheimer’s Store + Memory Care Products
The AlzStore has been supplying Memory Care Facilities for over 10 years. We would like to work with you, your staff and your designers to bring our specialized products to your residents . Whether it is a remodel or a newly built facility, we have products that can increase the independence of your residents thus economizing nursing care as well as preventing caregiver burnout.
If you are planning to place a quantity order, please call us to further assist you at 1-800-752-3238
Problematic Patterns And Surfaces
Certain patterns and surfaces cause problems for some people with dementia, who find it hard to understand what they are seeing. For example:
- patterned carpets can be mistaken for uneven ground
- dark mats can be confused for holes in the floor
- shiny surfaces and mirrors can also be confusing as someone may not realise that what they are seeing is a reflection
Removing these types of surfaces and patterns will help to make the home safer and easier to get around for someone with dementia.
Read Also: Can A Client Who Has Dementia Also Experience Delirium
Initial Causes Alzheimers Home Safety Products
There are several different causes of memory loss. Some cause this condition in the young, while others may be more gradual. If you notice that your memory is weakening, its important to consult a medical professional. Whether the cause is mental illness, age, or a combination of factors, its important to seek treatment as soon as possible. People with extensive memory loss may have social difficulties and anxiety, which can lead to depression. They may be afraid they are letting their loved ones down, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Alzheimers Home Safety Products
Fortunately, there are many causes of memory loss, and many of them are treatable. However, if you are experiencing serious memory problems, you may need medical treatment. If you have been undergoing any type of medication, you should consult with your doctor. Some people have other underlying conditions that may be causing their loss of memory. Alcohol abuse, sleep deprivation, or other mental health conditions can cause memory problems. You should seek out a medical professional if you suspect youre suffering from any of these conditions.
> > > Root Cause For Alzheimer And Dementia Found
A healthy diet can be a great memory loss remedy. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as low-fat proteins such as nuts and seeds. Drinking plenty of water is also beneficial. The environment and personal experiences can affect the way your brain stores information, and this can lead to memory loss. There are many other causes of temporary memory loss, and it is important to get help as soon as possible. You should consult a medical professional to determine what the best treatment will be for your particular situation. Alzheimers Home Safety Products
A healthy diet is another effective memory loss remedy. A healthy diet should include plenty of vegetables and fruits. A healthy diet is a key component in memory improvement. This is the best way to prevent memory loss. The best way to do this is to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into your daily routine. If you cant eat fruits and vegetables, you should avoid them altogether. They are packed with antioxidants that can help your brain.
Read Also: How Much Does It Cost For Alzheimer’s Care
Home Security Cameras Can Monitor Activity And Safety
While it is certainly helpful to receive notifications when something unusual is happening, not every alarm or alert will signify an emergency. Caregivers who want to minimize false alarms and unnecessary worry can also install smart camera systems that can be remotely monitored from a smartphone or another mobile device.
If a door or window sensor is triggered unexpectedly or motion sensors detect unusual activity, caregivers can access real-time video feeds to assess the situation. Frontpoints Indoor Cameras and Premium Indoor Cameras even have two-way audio features that allow caregivers to converse directly with the resident to determine whether there is cause for concern.
Besides allowing you to check on alarms and notifications, cameras help provide the day-to-day monitoring required to ensure the health and safety of people with an Alzheimers or dementia diagnosis. Video can not only alert loved ones of worsening symptoms or erratic activity, but provide oversight of any professional caregivers who are hired to help.
While smart cameras can be mounted anywhere in the home, they are especially effective when pointed at areas where safety issues are likely to arise, such as stairways, kitchens, front and back doors, and, if a loved one agrees, bedrooms and bathrooms.
Reasons Why People With Dementia Wander
Task Oriented:
Pain, discomfort and agitation: Emotions can be reason to wander. They are not happy in their present situation so if they move to another location maybe those symptoms will not come with them. But in actuality, they are wandering.
Loss of Memory: When people become disoriented due to their present thoughts disappearing, their reality being blurred or seeking places that were once familiar to them, they wander looking to go back to those comforting and safe places. They are searching for their past.
Disorientation: They may wake up at 5 in the morning and not know if it is day going into night or night going into day. They will leave their surroundings to seek the answer.
Don’t Miss: Is Alzheimer’s A Type Of Dementia
Safety Outside The Home
Some people with dementia may become disoriented and get lost in unfamiliar, or even in previously familiar surroundings. Therefore it is important at all times that they carry appropriate identification, including their name and address and an emergency contact number. An identity bracelet is ideal.
Safety tips:
- Keep paths well swept and clear of overhanging branches
- Remove poisonous plants and dispose of hazardous substances from sheds and garages