Door Lock For Alzheimers Patients
While there is no perfect memory loss remedy, there are several things that you can do to prevent it. First of all, exercising regularly can help keep your lungs in good shape. People who get regular exercise have better memories, and a regular exercise program can reduce stress. Additionally, exercising can help prevent memory loss by keeping your mind active. Here are some of the best ways to make your brain healthier and keep your mind sharp. Read on to learn more. Door Lock for Alzheimers Patients
Dementia Proof Door Knobs And Lever Locks
As an alternative to traditional locks, you can use doorknob locks or lever locks to prevent seniors with dementia from leaving the house or entering a room.
These simple devices are officially made to keep children inside, however, many of them are also appropriate to prevent elderly people with cognitive impairment from wandering.
For door levers, check out this model on Amazon. Its pretty simple to install and can be really effective in most cases. For door knobs, I would go with this unobtrusive model.
Kwikset Bd99120 Zwave Smartkey Motorized Lever Lock
This Kwikset Smartkey Lever Lock can be controlled from anywhere with a smartphone or computer. You can even receive notifications when people enter the home. It protects against lock bumping. It is easy to install and comes in a variety of finishes. This electronic lock allows you to access and manage your locks from your smartphone, tablet or PC. This is priced at $190.
You May Like: Dementia Support Groups For Family Members
Orangeiot Keyless Deadbolt Lock
The OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock offers security and convenience with its key-free, illuminated number pad. The door locks aesthetic design complements all home décor styles, and its weather resistance and long-term durability maximize use.
Other key features include:
- Multiple user codes up to 20 preset codes
- Automatic locking system that can set to engage after 10 to 99 seconds
- Easy installation
This type of door lock offers a cost-effective option to increase security with a price range of $47-125.
Initial Causes Door Lock For Alzheimers Patients
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. Door Lock for Alzheimers Patients
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.
Read Also: How Do You Spell Dementia
Locks And Alarms Have Limitations
If you search the Internet, the typical solutions suggested for this problem involve door locks and or alarms. However, in my experience both of these approaches have limitations.
Below is an example of a simple motion alarm. For some situations, this might be sufficient.
Caption- Limited function IR motion sensor
Why Its Our Top Choice
The All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Latch Door Lock by Code-a-Key is our top choice for best door locks for dementia patients for the following reasons:
- Dual keypad locks from both inside and outside
- Independent programming on either side keep a simpler code for inside use and a tougher code outside to prevent burglars
- QuickCode easy code changing
You may also like Hydration Balls for Dementia and Elderly Patients
Recommended Reading: Is Dementia And Alzheimer’s Disease The Same
Types Of Electronic Door Locks For Elderly People
If your loved one has Alzheimer’s and you fear for his or her safety due to wandering behavior, Alzheimer’s proof electronic door locks may be the best way to keep your loved one safe. Electronic door locks for dementia patients can provide caregivers and family peace of mind that their loved one with dementia will be less likely to wander.
Eudemon 4 Pack Door Knob Cover
As the name suggests, baby safety door knobs offer much-needed relief to parents trying to keep their toddlers from entering certain rooms in the house. Interestingly, this device can also be used for the same purpose by those with a family member in the later stages of dementia.
Remember that this device is a knob cover. It forms a layer over the knob. When a dementia patient tries to turn the knob, the cover rotates smoothly. But the knob itself does not move an inch.
It is observed that dementia patients do not use force to open the door. They will most likely give up after one or two attempts. The package comes with 4 baby safety door knob covers. You can safeguard your entire home with a single pack.
Note that this Eudemon door knob cover is not made with eco-friendly materials. This is one of the biggest drawbacks of this product. Generally, door locks for dementia patients are pure metal or an alloy.
However, this is not a use-and-throw lock. It lasts for years. Once damaged you can dispose of it in a garbage bin. Fortunately, these products are separated from the general thrash and sent back to the factory where they are recycled.
The Thermoplastic Rubber TPR used in this product is soft and gentle on the skin. It is a lot better to have a soft gel-like material rubbing over your doorknob. Metal covers can lead to scratches and lacerations on the doorknob.
This product is suitable for:
Benefits
Drawbacks
Don’t Miss: Does Alcohol Help Prevent Alzheimer’s
Defender Security Door Reinforcement Lock
Defender Security door reinforcement lock is designed to withstand 800 lbs of force. Primarily, this is a security device that is to be installed on the inner side of the door. When locked from the inside, it prevents burglars from breaking the door open.
Dementia caregivers can benefit by installing this lock on the outer side of the patients room. When installed on the outer side of the door, you can lock/unlock this device from the outside. The occupant of the locked room will have no access to the Defender Security lock.
Since the door is locked from the outside, you dont have to worry about the patient getting locked in. You can install this lock higher up the door frame so a child or a visitor does not unlock it accidentally. Doing this is important as the lock can be opened by simply swinging it away from the door.
To install this device all you need is a drilling machine, Phillips screwdriver, safety glasses, and a pencil. The product package includes 3-inch hardened screws and an instruction manual.
In addition, you might also need a chisel and a hammer for tight-fitting doors. Chiseling helps you align the mounting plate with the surface of the door jamb.
Remember that this lock is to be installed on the door jamb. As I mentioned before, if you have a tight-fitting door you might have to chisel a few millimeters off the door jamb surface so the lock fits flush on the door jamb.
This product is suitable for:
Benefits
Drawbacks
Gps Tracker Watch System
The GPS Tracker Watch System includes the base unit and watch. You place the watch on your family member and set safe zones on the base unit. If the family member moves outside of the safe zone, the receiver gives both an audible and visual signal alerting you that the family member has wandered. There is a monthly service plan required. This price is $249, not including the monthly service plan.
Read Also: What Is The Difference Between Dementia And Senility
What Are Signs Of Dementia Wandering
- Returning from regular walks or drives later than the normally do.
- Forgetfulness about how to reach places they normally go to.
- Talking about completing obligations that they have previously mentioned and may have already completed.
- Expressing desire to go home even when already at home.
- Physical restlessness, pacing, or repetitive movements.
- Having trouble locating familiar things or rooms in the home.
- Appearing lost when entering a new or changing environment.
- Expression of nervousness or anxiety in commonly crowded areas, such as in restaurants or malls.
Door Locks For Alzheimer Patients
While there is no perfect memory loss remedy, there are several things that you can do to prevent it. First of all, exercising regularly can help keep your lungs in good shape. People who get regular exercise have better memories, and a regular exercise program can reduce stress. Additionally, exercising can help prevent memory loss by keeping your mind active. Here are some of the best ways to make your brain healthier and keep your mind sharp. Read on to learn more. Door Locks for Alzheimer Patients
Recommended Reading: How Long Do You Survive With Alzheimer’s
Multiples Of Common Items
One way to Alzheimers-proof your home is to purchase multiple sets of commonly used household items.
Individuals with dementia often forget where things are or where they placed items. Having many different sets of everyday household items around the house can make finding them easier.
Some items to consider are:
- Kitchen utensils
- Reading glasses
- Office supplies, like scissors, pens, and pencils
You may not know right away what you need. Be aware and keep a list of items that are regularly used but often misplaced.
Other Types Of Dementia Door Locks
While most of the door locks we covered above rely on keypads or keyless entry, other types of door locks may be a better fit for you and your loved ones needs:
- A keyed door knob lock can be a good option for a caregiver who wants to seal off a room from a loved one with Alzheimers or other form of dementia.
- Door top locks sit on top of a door frame, can be locked from the inside and outside, and provide a solution for caregivers who are worried about their loved ones wandering outdoors.
- Door reinforcement locks bring additional protection against burglars, but they can also be an effective solution for dementia patients who demonstrate aggressive behavior.
- Door lever locks are easy to install and can be placed on either side of the door. This type of lock can prevent a dementia patient from wandering outside when the lock is installed on the outer side of the door.
- Baby safety door knob covers add an additional safety layer by preventing the doorknob from rotating, which can help keep your loved one from entering certain rooms.
Also Check: What Are Dementia Friendly Colours
Electronic Door Locks For The Elderly Keep Loved Ones Safe
Electronic Alzheimer’s proof door locks are an easy way to keep entryways securely locked during the night or while you are away. Packages usually include a knob and keypad. To unlock, someone needs to know the code you have set on the system. Some systems come with a tampering alarm, which disables it for one minute and sounds an alarm if someone enters the wrong code multiple times.
Door Lever Lock By Tuut 2 Pack
This lock traps the door handle in between two lock arms. Once this device is activated, the dementia patient wont be able to turn the door handle in either of the directions.
Before installing this device to the door, ensure the alignment is correct. Place the lever lock behind the door handle such that the handle has enough room to operate. Once this is done, mark the circumference of the lever lock with a pencil.
Next, peel the PE foam 3M adhesive tape and swiftly attach the lock to the marked position.
I suggest you install a Tutt door lever lock on each of the doors in your home, especially the main door.
Note that door lever locks are quite easy to deactivate for people with no cognitive difficulties. However, a middle or late-stage Alzheimers patient will struggle to deactivate it.
After a few failed attempts at opening the door, they will most likely quit without further investigation.
This door lever lock is a blessing for the family members of a dementia patient. Primarily, this device is used to prevent a toddler from opening the main door. You will be glad to know that it performs the same function for dementia patients with diminishing cognitive abilities.
You can prevent your father or mother from wandering off outdoors without your permission. Note that this device is purely mechanical and hence it does not alert you when fiddled with. It merely obstructs your loved one and the door handle. In my opinion, it is semi-reliable.
This product is suitable for:
Also Check: Why Do Dementia Patients Fall
Dementia Door Lock Features
There are certain features you will want to look out for when shopping for dementia door locks. Before we look at some top-rated door locks for dementia patients, heres a breakdown of a few of the key features you can expect to see in their descriptions.
- Two-way security locks the door from the inside and outside.
- Multiple user codes give multiple people unique access codes to unlock or lock the door.
- An automatic locking system goes into effect after 10 to 99 seconds and reduces the risk of forgetting to lock the door.
- Lock/unlock from anywhere lets you unlock or lock from your smartphone.
For safety reasons, a person living with Alzheimers or another form of dementia should never be locked in their home alone without a caregiver present.
Locking Doors When A Person Has Dementia
Some carers may decide to lock a person with dementia in their home so that they cannot leave. However, a person with dementia should never be locked in if they are on their own as this can be very dangerous for example if there is a fire, or if they have an accident or fall.
If there is someone else in the house with the person, you may want to lock the doors to stop the person going outside and putting themselves at risk. You might do this, for example, if they live near a busy road. You should discuss whether to lock the doors with any other people who are involved in the persons care.
Any decisions that you make should not place the person with dementia at any risk, and doors should be locked for the shortest time necessary. Be aware of any fire risks and ensure that the locks are easy for you or another carer to operate.
If the person has capacity and consents to the doors being locked then you can lock them. If the person doesnt have capacity you can lock the doors if it is in their best interests and is also the least restrictive option for keeping them safe.
Also Check: How Long Can A Person Live With Severe Dementia
Door Alarms For Wandering In Alzheimer’s And Dementia
Angela Underwood’s extensive local, state, and federal healthcare and environmental news coverage includes 911 first-responder compensation policy to the Ciba-Geigy water contamination case in Toms River, NJ. Her additional health-related coverage includes death and dying, skin care, and autism spectrum disorder.
If your loved one or patient with Alzheimer’s disease or a different type of dementia wanders and attempts to leave your home or facility, one option to increase their safety is to place alarms on the doors. You can also try different locking mechanisms such as a latch up high, but the concern with that strategy is that in case of a fire, the person may not be able to escape safely out of the house.
An alarm can allow the person to attempt exiting through the door but will also alert you to her need for assistance. Alarms can offer you a little support and reassurance in your efforts to ensure your loved one’s safety so that, rather than feel that you have to constantly check on her, you know that the alarm will sound if she suddenly wakes and needs assistance.
Reducing Risk Of Dementia Wandering
The wandering element of dementiacare can be tricky, but the following are tips that may help a caregiver or family member reduce risk of wandering for a dementia sufferer:
- Determine what time of day the person is most likely to wander, and plan activities to do during this time. This can help reduce anxiety and agitation.
- Ensure all basic needs are met and easily accessible this includes toileting, nutrition, and hydration. Consider reducing liquid intake around 2 hours prior to bedtime so as the reduce need for the person to get out of bed to seek the washroom.
- Reassure your loved one at times when they feel lost or disoriented, especially when it is accompanied with anxiety and agitation.
- If the person is no longer able to drive, remove the availability of car keys, as a person with dementia may forget that they can no longer drive and may wander by car.
- Avoid commonly crowded areas like restaurants or malls when possible.
- Assess the persons response to new surroundings. Do not leave someone with dementia unsupervised if new surroundings may cause confusion, disorientation or agitation.
- Install a two-way keyless doorlock that can be locked on the inside as well, so that your loved one will be unable to wander outside.
Read Also: Can I Get Tested For Alzheimer’s Gene