Safety is one of the first things to consider when your loved one is showing signs of dementia. Many individuals with dementia can become disoriented even in their own home. Things that were once easy or familiar to them are now difficult tasks to complete and present a number of new concerns. As their personality and abilities change with the progression of the disease we must always be considering their safety. Things that once posed no risk can now be very dangerous for your loved one. Below are some safety measures to consider for your loved one with dementia in the home setting.
- WHO IS GOING TO LOCK IT ALL UP
As the disease progresses those with dementia forget how to use simple household items. It is important that all items that could be ingested be thrown out or locked up safely. This includes cleaners, deodorant, soaps, lotions, medications, toothpaste, etc. These items are now something to be considered potentially harmful to your loved one.
- WHAT IS THERE TO GRAB ON TO
Balance becomes more difficult as we age. Installing grab bars in areas that additional assistance is needed to help transfer or stand up, such as the bathroom can decrease slips and falls. As your loved one progresses in the disease they may forget to use these assistive devices and may need gentle reminders when you are assisting them.
- WHEN TO REMOVE THE CAR KEYS
Make sure that the dangers of driving no longer exist. Think about removing the car keys or even making arrangements to remove the vehicle all together. The garage possesses a number of risks as well; think about the tools and other items that could become potentially dangerous if used inappropriately.
- WHERE MIGHT THEY BE GOING
A behavior typically associated with dementia is wandering. This is frightening as your loved one begins to leave the home and not know how to return, does not watch for traffic, etc. Supervision of your loved one must be established, this should be 24 hour supervision. However some devices can also assist including window and door alarms that notify someone that the door has been opened.
- WHY SHOULD WE WATCH THE FLOOR
The floor can become hazardous as we age, not only are there tripping hazards but some of those beautiful throw rugs become dangerous as well. Many individuals with dementia struggle with their ability to see solid items on the floor as they look more like a large hole in the ground then a once nice area rug.
- HOW TO KNOW WHEN ITS NO LONGER SAFE
As time passes there will come a time when it may no longer be safe for your loved one to remain at home. It is important to start examining your options early on to identify the best possible level of care for your loved one. Many levels of service exist and it never hurts to know your options.
There are a lot of things to consider when establishing a safe home environment for your loved one with dementia. These are only some basic steps to begin setting your home up with safety precautions. It is important to have all the options and talk to the experts about the next step in care. Come to the Tanglewood Group Memory Care Support Group on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 2-3:30 p.m. for additional support or call (716) 488-9434 to request a tour today.
Memory Care Support Group 