In the early stage of Alzheimer’s
disease, patients generally do not present safety problems. But
because of the nature of the disease’s progression, those
in the later stages of Alzheimer’s do present safety concerns.
For example, many early-stage Alzheimer patients can still safely
drive a car. But by three years after diagnosis, more than 50%
give up driving. Following are hints to help you, the caregiver,
keep your loved one safe.
Alzheimer patients are prone to falls.
Floors should be kept clear of loose items such as scatter rugs,
lamp and extension cords. Move furniture from walking areas and
place tape on sharp furniture.
Put decals on sliding glass doors so
Alzheimer patients don’t accidentally attempt to walk through
them.
Often, Alzheimer patients try to hide
objects. Ovens, burners and garbage disposals are favorite hiding
spots. You may want to consider putting a lock on the oven door,
and disconnecting the garbage disposal.
Never leave an Alzheimer patient alone
in the car. They may get caught in the power windows, release
the brakes, or accidentally start the car.
Store all medicines, solvents and cleaning
supplies in locked drawers and cabinets.
Consider removing lock tumblers from
a patient’s room to avoid having them accidentally lock
themselves in their room from the inside.
Keep clothes lines high enough that
a patient can’t walk into them. This may prevent a fall
or even prevent them from choking.
Alzheimer patients have reduced ability
to feel pain. Many patients are unable to speak, so they cannot
tell you they are in pain. Therefore, never feed a patient food
or liquid without testing the temperature first. Also, test the
water temperature before exposing the patient to a shower or bath.
Some patients can be frightened by
the jets of water from a showerhead. Consider replacing the jet
spray showerhead with one that gives off a fine spray.
Make the shower or bath tub a safer
place by installing grab bars in the shower and bath to prevent
falls. Invest in a sturdy bath or shower seat, which will allow
a patient to bathe while sitting down. Also, consider a rubber,
non-slip bath or shower mat with special suction cups.
Placing outlet covers on electrical
sockets will help prevent a patient from receiving an electrical
shock, should they stick a piece of metal into the outlet.
Alzheimer patients cannot see well
in the dark. Provide night-lights in walking areas and at the
top of stairs. Provide low-level table lighting for night use.
Consider putting a safety gate at the top of stairs at night.
Many Alzheimer patients wander. Remember
to keep upstairs windows locked. Sliding glass doors can be locked
by putting a small board in the sliding track. You might want
to consider using a red stop sign on the door. Research has shown
that red is one color that patients do see well.
Alzheimer patients fatigue quickly.
They seem to have the most energy in the morning and early afternoon
hours. As darkness approaches, they become irritable and may display
obstinate behaviors. Often, they spend the night awake and wander
about. This is referred to as “sundown syndrome”.
A baby nursery monitor in the patient’s bedroom will allow
you to hear the patient if he or she begins to stir during the
night.
Sundown syndrome can be eased for Alzheimer
patients by making certain they receive regular exercise. Frequent
walks outdoors in the bright light not only provide exercise,
but it also exposes the patient too much needed sunlight.
Consider removing mirrors from a patient’s
room…some patients are unable to recognize themselves in
a mirror. They may think a stranger is in their room. Try to fill
the patient’s room with photos of people and events that
stir up pleasant memories.
