Preventing Falls for Alzheimer’s Patients

Sep 30, 2019

Safety for seniors means safety in the home, as well as outside of the home. Safety for someone with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, means keeping the environment and surroundings as predictable as possible. Falls can be prevented by foreseeing the possible hazards and conditions that could be a precursor to a trip to the hospital.

Here’s what to look out for:

Weather

In Kansas City, Overland Park, Johnson County, Mission Hills and Leawood, the weather swings to extremes that make Alzheimer’s patients more vulnerable to falls. Guard rails and well-lit pathways can make getting in and out of the house easier during foul weather.

On the other end of the spectrum, proper hydration and nutrition can prevent falls due to heat exposure or weakness when it is hot. People with Alzheimer’s may forget to drink or eat enough.

In-Home Environment

Trip hazards are a major cause of falls in seniors. Loose rugs, cords running across walkways, and poorly lit bedroom pathways to the bathroom are all dangers. Since people with Alzheimer’s can have bouts of wandering, make sure proper lighting and item-free floors are a norm.

Medication Management

If your loved one with Alzheimer’s is in charge of his or her own medication, it’s time to make a change. People with memory issues have trouble tracking their medication, which can be dangerous or deadly. Dizziness or falls can occur when some drugs interact. Have a caregiver prepare pill boxes—the kinds that allow single-day boxes to be laid out per day of the week. This can ensures that pills are taken at the right time in the right doses.

Thoughtful Care  provides in-home assessments for fall risks when our professionals do an intake. Our skilled care providers can prevent falls by making sure that your loved one is safe, nourished, hydrated and taking the right medication. Call us to find out more.

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