Cognitive decline becomes a reality for some seniors, which can be dangerous and detrimental to their health, particularly when they live alone. Preserving their independence and standard of living requires providing a secure living space, which can be done with the help of Alzheimer’s home care. Important factors are required to ensure the most safety.
Some of those factors and tips are explored below:
Remove Risks
To detect and get rid of any potential risks, loved ones should do a complete examination of the house. This includes securing loose carpets, clearing clutter, and making sure there are clear paths to avoid trips and falls. With the support of Alzheimer’s home care services, loved ones might notice things they might not have otherwise.
Install Safety Features
Speaking of slips and falls, loved ones can install grab bars in bathrooms, handrails on staircases, and nonslip mats in showers. Also, it’s important to pay attention to lighting throughout the home, particularly at night. Both night lights and motion-activated lights are good options.
Label and Organize
If cupboards, drawers, and closets are labeled, seniors can find necessary objects more readily and retain their independence. It’s important for loved ones to include seniors in the organization process, not only so they know where things are but also so they maintain a sense of control.
Make Home Design Simpler
When organizing, it’s also important to pay attention to the home’s layout. While a layout might have remained the same for years, when cognitive decline is involved, changes to the layout and even the decor are often necessary. With a simpler layout and design, seniors are less likely to get confused.
Safe Storage of Prescription Drugs and Cleaning Supplies
Prescription medications and household cleaning supplies should be kept out of reach or locked in cupboards to avoid improper use.
Use Technology
To improve safety and peace of mind, loved ones should work with seniors to embrace technological solutions like medical alert systems, motion sensors, and smart home appliances. These devices can recognize emergencies, keep an eye on mobility, and help seniors complete their everyday duties.
Establish Structure and Routine
It’s important to establish a routine for seniors struggling with cognitive decline. This can be done with the support of a loved one or Alzheimer’s home care, as they can help seniors make meals, manage their medication, and complete tasks in a way that becomes a pattern.
Encourage Social Engagement
Seniors struggling with cognitive decline might withdraw from social situations. Loved ones should encourage them to keep these social ties, enhancing their mental health and reducing any loneliness and isolation.
The degree of cognitive decline in seniors may determine whether or not they need ongoing supervision, such as Alzheimer’s home care. Loved ones, seniors, and Alzheimer’s home care professionals can all work together to ensure the factors mentioned above are in place to promote the most safety.
Careful planning, close attention to detail, and continuous support are necessary to provide a safe home environment for seniors experiencing cognitive decline. By implementing these techniques, making the appropriate modifications, and working collaboratively with an Alzheimer’s home care agency, families may assist their loved ones in comfortably and safely aging in place while preserving their independence and dignity.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Denver, CO, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Denver, CO, today. Call (303) 647-1800
At Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Denver, CO, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Denver, Englewood, Lakewood, Aurora, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Parker, Centennial, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, Castle Rock and surrounding areas in Colorado.
Sources:
- https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/home-safety
- https://www.alzsd.org/universal-design-dementia-creating-a-safe-happy-home/
- https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2017/dementia-home-safety.html
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