Aging in place is the preference for many senior adults. For many seniors, dementia progresses slowly. With new medications and other forms of support, a senior with dementia can live at home safely for many years. Taking these four actions can help you keep your loved one with dementia safe as they enjoy living at home.
1- Install Safety Features in Their Home
A person with dementia might not always notice if the floor is wet and slippery. Or, your loved one might forget to turn off the stove when they finish cooking. One of the first things you can do is perform a safety assessment that lets you know where you can make some home improvements. Adding a grab rail near the toilet and shower can give your loved one a sturdy place to grip as they walk on slippery surfaces. Your loved one might also benefit from having appliances that automatically shut off after a period of time.
2- Invest in a Personal Alarm for Seniors
Personal alarms provide monitoring services for seniors and others with dementia. If someone with dementia happens to fall when they are alone at home, it’s helpful for them to be wearing technology that allows them to reach out for help. Since personal alarms typically require little more than pressing a button to call for help, people with dementia can request assistance during times when communication may be difficult. You can set personal alarms up for family monitoring, or you can connect them to professionals who provide around-the-clock assistance. Either way, you’ll feel greater peace of mind knowing your loved one can access help in an emergency.
3- Remove Hazardous Items
As dementia progresses, your loved one might struggle with using common objects around the house. For instance, they could accidentally mix two cleaning chemicals that cause poisonous gas to develop. Or, your loved one may no longer be capable of using their power tools without assistance. Taking the time to walk through your loved one’s home to identify items that need to be put out of their reach can prevent serious accidents. If your loved one balks at the idea, then remind them that you can visit to help them with their favorite hobbies or cleaning routines.
4- Provide Regular Check-Ins and Support
Dementia support can also require having people who visit your loved one regularly. For instance, you may need a caregiver to pop in a few times a week to make sure they are taking their medications correctly. Medication management can help prevent serious mishaps. Your loved one may also need assistance with transportation if they can no longer drive or meal services once they are no longer able to cook alone. Providing your loved one with companionship also helps to bolster their emotional well-being.
As with any dementia care plan, you’ll want to continue to monitor the results. Making sure that your loved one has quick access to help prevents serious health issues. Surrounding people with dementia with a team of support is the best way to help them enjoy their independence for as long as possible.