If your mom has dementia, it's very likely that she'll reach a point where she starts to wander. When you're home and awake, you'll likely notice before she gets far. If you're at work or asleep, however, wandering can pose a true risk to her safety. There are ways you can prevent her from wandering or be alerted if she tries.
Maintain a Daily Routine
Keep a daily routine and don't stray from it. Make it a routine that before your mom goes to bed, she goes to the bathroom. Avoid letting her have water a couple of hours before bed so that her bladder stays empty longer. Make sure she's eaten at the usual dinner time so that hunger pangs don't wake her up.
Install Door Alarms
An audible door alarm will alert you to the door opening when you're asleep. You don't need to pay for a costly security system if it's out of your price range. You can pick up door alarms at a hardware store that sound an alarm if the door opens and separates the sensors. You can also use these audible alarms on windows.
Put in Door Locks or Barriers in Unusual Places
Install a sliding bolt high at the top of a door or near the floor. If your mom tries to open the door, the sliding bolt will prevent her from being able to open the door. For a patio door, a wooden board placed as a barrier to keep the door from opening may help. You could also use an expanding shower curtain rod or curtain rod at the top of the door frame.
Purchase a GPS Tracker and Medical ID Bracelet
If your mom does manage to outsmart the preventative measures you've used, make sure she can be identified as having dementia. Have a medical ID bracelet that includes your contact information. Look into the Alzheimer's Association Safe Return program. This program offers a 24/7 response service that helps get your mom back to her home. GPS trackers added to shoes, hidden in jacket pockets, worn as a watch, or sewn into pajamas make it easier to locate her.
Hire Caregivers for Night Shifts
Call an elderly care service and ask about having a caregiver come to your mom's home at night. You'll be able to sleep while the caregiver is awake at night to prevent your mom from wandering. Elderly care professionals can help with other aspects of care. Have a caregiver available for meal preparation, daily grooming routines, and housework. You'll have more time to care for your mom, and she'll have a companion.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Avenues, UT, contact the caring staff at Interim Healthcare. Call today 801-401-3515.
Author: Michael and Marlena Hawkins, Owners, Interim HealthCare, Salt Lake City, UT
Interim HealthCare of Salt Lake City has been in business since February 2014, providing in-home personal care and support services that help our elderly and/or disabled neighbors live enriched, safe and independent lives. Our goal is to provide customized care and support services that make it possible for our clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes rather than relocate to an assisted living facility. Interim HealthCare is family owned by Michael and Marlana Hawkins, and is a Veteran Owned Small Business.
