Dealing with Dementia

Dr. Morgan Sauer of the Longevity Center at St. Vincent stopped by to share some helpful details for safety when someone in your life has been diagnosed with dementia.

What are the major concerns with the safety of a loved one with dementia?

• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Disorientation
• Limited mobility
• Coordination
• Poor judgment/insight into the dangers present

What are some specific safety issues in the home?

• Keep furniture in place in a simple arrangement.
• No loose rugs  
• Night-lights to light the way to the bathroom at night.
• No old medications
• No hazardous materials such as kerosene.
• Automatic cut-off mechanisms for irons and other appliances
• Remove exposed electrical cords to avoid tripping
• Lower the temperature of water in the home
• Smoke detectors in good working order with batteries checked often
• A shower chair or bath seat
• Rails at bath, shower and toilet provide support and balance.
• Easy-to-read clocks and large calendars will help to orient to date and time.
• A list of contact names and numbers in large print placed by the telephone allows the person to more easily stay connected.

What about outside the home?

• Clear sidewalks
• No overhanging branches
• Locked gates to prevent wandering
• No poisonous or hazardous chemicals

  

What can family members do to help?

• Offer to help
• Be patient
• Be kind

There are many resources available for education on dementia:

• Physicians' offices who specialize in dementia
• Alzheimer’s Association and Alzheimer's Arkansas
• Specialized facilities for care of victims of dementia.
• Adult Day Health Care centers

If you’d like more information on dementia or would like to contact Dr. Sauer:

Longevity Center at St. Vincent

5 St. Vincent Circle

Little Rock, AR  72205

To schedule an appointment call

501-552-4777 or

1-866-275-4777

Mon- Fr. 8 a.m. 4:30 p.m.