A large proportion of older adults are set on remaining at home throughout aging, instead of relocating to an assisted living facility or nursing home – close to 90% of them, based on research conducted by AARP. And who can blame them? The comfort of familiar surroundings, the freedom to go wherever, whenever you please, and the freedom to prepare the meals you want when you would like them are all invaluable commodities. But although it seems like the perfect plan for growing older, there are concerns that arise for seniors with mild dementia.
- Will the older person stay safe?
- How will the senior get around if their dementia makes driving, or even walking, challenging?
- What will happen if the aging adult with dementia gets sick or hurt while they’re alone?
Thankfully, it’s now easier than ever for seniors with mild dementia to stay safe and well cared for at home. These recommendations can help you in taking the necessary steps to ensure your loved one is prepared for these needs and any others, now and in the coming years:
- Assess the home, both inside and out, from the viewpoint of the senior’s safety. Check to verify that:
- Grab bars are in place in the bathroom beside the tub and toilet.
- Throw rugs and other tripping hazards are taken away.
- There is plenty of lighting, including in hallways and stairways.
- Frequently used items are stored within easy reach.
- Emergency numbers are posted in a highly visible location.
- Create a transportation plan, so it is ready to implement when driving is no longer feasible:
- Research public transportation choices that are available and easy to access.
- Assemble a volunteer team of reliable people the senior can turn to for transportation when needed: friends, family members, neighbors, religious organizations, local senior centers, Compassionate Care Home Health Services, etc.
- Ensure the aging adult has access to the technology that can be used in an emergency to call for help when alone, such as a PERS (personal emergency response system).
The perfect way to ensure seniors with mild dementia are safe and well cared for at home, however, is by hiring a trusted home care agency, such as Compassionate Care Home Health Services, for dementia care in Saginaw and the surrounding areas. Our care experts are extensively trained and have experience in providing personal care services, transportation, meal preparation, and companionship, and are available for as much or as little care as the senior needs.
Our first step is to create an individualized plan of care to address the older adult’s distinct needs and wishes, and then we continually monitor that plan and modify as needs change – ensuring that the senior stays safe and will be able to live life to the fullest, where it’s most comfortable: at home. Compassionate Care Home Health Services, delivering expert dementia care in Saginaw and the surrounding areas, invites you to contact us online or by phone at (877) 308-1212 to learn more.