According to the CDC, it is estimated that 5.8 million people in the United States are living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most common form. Dementia can affect language, memory and problem-solving abilities that generally worsen over time. This means that seniors living with the various forms of dementia are at an increased risk for injury compared to those without.

If you are a caretaker for a senior living with dementia, it is vitally important to understand how to safely care for your loved one. Establishing and maintaining a daily routine to ensure their basic needs are met can be most helpful by ensuring good nutrition, hydration, and having a toileting schedule. Gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga for seniors, can help decrease anxiety and agitation symptoms associated with dementia along with normal age-related aches in joints and muscles. 

Seniors Living With Dementia: Safety 101

Some general safety tips for seniors living with dementia include locking up chemicals, medications, tools, weapons, and firearms. Check the water temperature to ensure it isn’t hot enough to cause burns and be sure the home thermostat is set at comfortable temperatures. 

Wandering can happen as dementia progresses, especially in those who experience sundowners syndrome. Be sure to have deadbolts and locks on doors that aren’t at eye level. Covering the door with a curtain or placing signs on the door to redirect their attention can be helpful. Install nanny cameras and then reassess their safety needs as needed. Also, it's a good idea to carry an up close and current picture of your loved one to give to the police for a missing person's report in case they do wander away.  

Physical changes such as loss of balance and slower movements are normal in older adults, but the changes to the brain associated with dementia make safety a priority. As you look through your home or your loved one’s home think about the following:

• Keep floors clear of clutter, including electrical cords. 

• Remove rugs that could be tripped over.

• Proper non-skid footwear is important to reduce the risk of falls.

• Add a grab bar in their bathroom. 

You can read more about in-home care and aging in place to learn how to keep seniors living with dementia in their homes safely for as long as possible.