Dementia is a broad term for a wide range of conditions that can affect everything from memory, perception, and coordination to mobility and muscle strength over time. Because of the many ways dementia-related conditions can affect quality of life for seniors, it’s important for caregivers to be mindful of home safety at all times. Here are six tips to keep in mind.
1. Mitigate Fall Risks
As dementia advances, seniors with the condition may not be as mindful of fall hazards as they should be. Create a safer home environment by mitigating fall hazards with efforts that include:
- Removing loose rugs
- Installing grab/grip bars in the bathroom
- Placing non-skid mats near the tub or shower
- Installing a shower bench or chair if mobility is already affected
- Putting night lights in common pathways
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional home care service. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Disable Locks on Interior Doors
Older adults with dementia sometimes lock bedroom or bathroom doors from the inside by accident, or they may do so when they’re confused or agitated. Create a safer home by having interior doorknobs either changed or adjusted so they can’t be locked on either side. However, you may want to keep working locks on doors to certain rooms you want to keep off-limits for safety reasons.
3. Use Monitoring Devices if Wandering Is a Problem
During the middle and later stages of dementia, some older adults begin to wander. If this is an issue for your loved one, place motion-sensing monitoring devices near the home’s exits. Some of these devices can be set up so you’ll get an alert on your phone if motion is detected.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide elderly home care. Kennebunk families can turn to Align Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
4. Minimize Household Clutter
Excess clutter can contribute to confusion and make it difficult to keep your loved one’s attention while you’re providing care. Clutter can accumulate because of dementia-related hoarding and pose a fall hazard. Be especially mindful of clutter on stairs, in or around common pathways, and near outlets, stoves, and other places where it could be dangerous.
5. Monitor or Lock Up Medication
A loved one with dementia may confuse dosages or think medication is candy or something to drink if it’s a liquid. Avoid potential issues of this nature by using a locked pill dispenser or storing medication where it can’t be easily accessed. Medication reminder devices that beep or “speak” may also be helpful, but they could also startle your loved one.
6. Don’t Forget about Electronics
Simply having dementia doesn’t mean your loved one can’t or shouldn’t use a computer or other electronic devices. Just make sure any internet-accessible device has appropriately adjusted safety and security settings to protect your loved one’s privacy and online-accessible information. Do the same thing with the TV in your loved one’s home if it has internet access. Also, adjust email settings and filters to minimize exposure to spam and reduce the risk of your loved one being taken advantage of by scammers.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Kennebunk families can rely on Align Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (207) 606-8419 to learn more about our customized care plans.