The Reality of Alzheimer's
Make "Their" World As Safe As Possible
There are very few things as challenging (and many times frustrating)
as caring for someone with Alzheimer's Disease. No matter what stage
of the disease you are dealing with, it can be physically, mentally and
emotionally demanding.
However, many well intentioned caregivers make it more difficult on
themselves by trying to force the Alzheimer's sufferer to "see reality" in
the same way as the caregiver does. This usually creates more denial,
resistance, anxiety and even hostility. The caregiver would be well advised
to remember the phrase, "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em." Validate
their world by allowing them their reality, and even participating with
them. This can ease their anxiety, reduce hostility and build trust between
the caregiver and the Alzheimer's afflicted individual.
Of course, their world may be hazardous to themselves and/or the people
around them. So a critical part of caregiving will be the maintaining
of a safe environment. Even within the home, it's very important to take
an critical look through "safety" eyes. Below are some hints to help.
An important part of Alzheimer's care is preventing
sufferers from hurting themselves and those around them. So caregivers
must constantly think safety.
Hints For Keeping The Home Safe
- Install door locks out of sight or in uncommon areas to lower the
chance of wandering away.
- Remove the locks on bedroom and bathroom doors to prevent someone
being locked in.
- Install locks and child-proof latches (inside and outside) on cabinets
and areas that contain household chemicals, medicines, liquor, knives,
appliances, scissors and other items that can pose a danger if misused.
- Turn down the hot water heater to 120°F and clearly mark all
hot water faucets because of a possible decreased in temperature sensitivity.
Monitor food temperatures, too.
- Install grab bars throughout the house.
- Use contrasting color rugs (tacked down) and tape to mark doorways
and stairs.
- Keep lighting even. Add extra light to foyers, hallways, stairs,
etc. Diffuse bright light and glare by covering or shading windows.
Also, cover or remove mirrors and glass-top tables.
- Clean out the refrigerator on a regular basis.
- If you are worried about stove use, remove the knobs. An electric
stove can be put on a timer to limit it's usage.
- No smoking alone. Supervise alcohol usage and medication intake,
as well.
- Keep legible emergency numbers (fire, police, poison control, doctors)
by every phone.
(Source: Alzheimer's Assn. & How To Care For Aging Parents by Morris)
