Caring for a loved one with dementia has its challenges, as well as rewards. One of the biggest challenges is keeping your loved one safe, especially as he or she gets into late-stage dementia where wandering is common. The first priority in caring for someone with dementia is safety. The following suggestions can help keep your loved one safe:
- Keep floors clear (remove area rugs and cords).
- Keep your loved one’s cane or walker nearby and the floors clear of clutter and cords.
- Adhere non-skid padding to stairs and secure handrails to easily climb flights.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and use a bath chair for bathing.
- Put up a curtain or other visual barrier at your front door if your aging loved one tends to wander out.
- Clearly label drawers, cabinets, and doors to easily locate items.
- Keep medicines, cleaning products, or other toxins, as well as sharp or dangerous items out of reach of your loved one.
- Install a home security system designed to watch over someone with dementia.
- Get an ID bracelet for your loved one or sew ID labels in his or her clothes.
- Be sure to make your neighbors aware that you have a loved one at home with dementia and make sure they have a contact number for you.
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