After discovering that your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may have a series of questions about adjusting to day-to-day life. Are they safe? Does my loved one understand what’s going on? How do I communicate with them? All are valid and pressing questions that our knowledgeable team can address. How can the right environment help someone with dementia?
When it comes to in-home safety, there are specific precautions and needed changes to make your environment safe. Dr. Piero Antuono, Silverado Brookfield Medical Director says the living environment plays a crucial role on the lifestyle for a person with dementia. Take in regard a living space that minimizes anxiety and noise, which can also additionally reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, confusion, and isolation.
We’ve also gathered some essential safety tips from Silverado in-home care experts. See if your living environment makes the cut.
- Register a Bracelet
The MedicAlert + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return program is available for individuals with dementia who may wander off, in which case the registered bracelet will have personalized information such as emergency contacts and health history. The bracelet is registered with local law enforcement to ensure that your loved one will be returned home safely. You can register an individual online through the Alzheimer’s Association. - Install Motion Detectors
Some motion detectors today have video capabilities, and some even have responsive automated voices. Experts suggests installing devices around the house, which helps to have another set of eyes to watch your loved one from wherever you are. - Remove rugs
As they are the number one cause of falls in the home, removing all rugs from teh home can be an important step to make the environment safer. - Take No Solicitors
Consider posting a “No Solicitors” sign at the front door to avoid any unexpected visitors. Also, have other family members pick up the phone, because a person with dementia can often be the victim of telephone exploitation. Keep the phone ringer volume on low and make everyone in the household aware that the phone should be answered in as few rings as possible. This will avoid possible distraction and confusion. - Remove Locks
Consider removing locks from the bathroom in case your loved one locks themselves inside. - Emergency Contacts
Display emergency numbers in every room and next to all telephones. - Lighting
Be sure lighting around the house is adequate, including entryways, corners, hallways, bathrooms, stairs, and outside landscaping. Lights with sensors may also be useful. - Electronics
Prevent fire hazards by keeping electronics on sturdy surfaces, covering unused electrical outlets and clearing any extension cords, which also minimizes the likelihood of trips and falls. - Prevent Slips
Install handles and grab bars around the house as safety grips. The handrail for stairways should extend beyond the first and last steps. To prevent slips, use nonskid adhesives in the tub, toilets, and sinks.
For more videos of dementia specialists answering common questions click here.
How can the right environment help someone with dementia?
How can the right environment help someone with dementia? How can the right environment help someone with dementia? How can the right environment help someone with dementia? How can the right environment help someone with dementia?How can the right environment help someone with dementia?
