Keeping a Loved One Safe at Home with Dementia

Elderly Care in Union County NJ: Keeping a Loved One Safe at Home with Dementia

A major concern of family caregivers who have a loved one at home with dementia is how do I keep them safe when I’m not there? One of the biggest concerns is wandering.

What is Wandering?

Wandering occurs when those with dementia leave their home or familiar surroundings in search of something else that even they may not be able to define. They may be feeling restless, or lost, or anxious. They may be in search of something or someone. When it occurs, it can leave a family panicked. There are, however, steps you can take to help keep your loved one safe and at home or quickly able to locate them should they leave unexpectedly.

GPS Tracking

Thanks to modern conveniences, it is easy to keep track of people in their daily life. There are devices specifically designed for those that may wander. Not only do they keep track of their location, but a boundary can be pre-set. When they venture out of this designated space, their caregiver is notified. Some personal emergency response systems, which are usually worn as a pendant around their neck or wrist, also have GPS capability.

Alarms and Video Monitors

Install video and audio monitors or simple door alarms that let you know when a door or window has been opened. There are floor mat alarms that let you know when your parent has gotten out of bed or up from their favorite recliner.

Identification and Neighbors

Do your best to place identification on them, whether an ID bracelet or a pendent. Use whatever object they will have the least tendency to remove. Request help from a neighbor and ask if they can be placed on a call list so that, should you receive notification that your parent has left the house, someone is close by to respond.

Activities and Routine

Those with dementia require routine and activity. Routine gives them a structured environment that they can count on and activity keeps them busy and occupied which reduces agitation. Exercise is important to incorporate into their daily schedule. Refrain from taking them to places where there are a lot of people, noise or extraneous activity. A simple, quiet environment with low stress is best for those with dementia.

Supervision

If possible, set up a support team that can provide care for your parent when you can’t be there. Throw your net wide to include friends, family, and neighbors. If you need additional support, consider an elderly care provider. These professionals have cared for numerous seniors facing these same challenges. They can assist with the daily activities of living as well as provide that all-important companionship which will become increasingly important as the years go by.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elderly care in Union County, NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.

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Susan Myer, RN, BSN, CCRN, CDP

Co-Owner at Generations Home Healthcare LLC

Susan is the Co-Owner of Generations Home HealthCare and has 35 years of business experience and entrepreneurship. For the last 10 years she has been a Registered Nurse working at St. Luke’s Hospital (Bethlehem, PA) in the Neuro/Trauma Unit and as a critical care nurse at Hunterdon Medical Center. She has a B.S. from Rutgers University and a BSN from Moravian College in Bethlehem, PA.Susan is currently in the process of obtaining her Master’s in Gerontology. Susan is married, has 2 children and 2 grandchildren.

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