Should a person with Alzheimer's disease or dementia stay home alone?

From the Examiner

Caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias at some time will need to consider whether their loved one can stay home alone. This is an issue to discuss with your health care provider or with a professional who specializes in dementia care. Here are some points that might help guide your discussion.

• Is the person able to use a telephone? If not, are they able and willing to use a one-button device, such as ADT Companion Service ®
• Does the person recognize a dangerous situation, for example, a fire? Try asking the question, “If the house caught on fire what would you do?”
• Does the person become confused or unpredictable under stress?
• Does the person wander or get lost?
• Is the person aware of his or her limitations? For example, does he know that he sometimes leaves the stove on?
• Is the person likely to engage in activities that require supervision, such as cooking, using tools, or using electrical appliances?
• Are there stairs or other environmental safety issues, such as excess clutter?
• Are you in a geographical location where you can easily return home, should an emergency occur? For example, are you crossing a bridge? Remember that during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake both the Bay Bridge and BART were temporarily non-functional.
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Be aware that people with dementia change over time. If your loved one is fine at home alone for short periods right now, be sure to reassess his or her capabilities periodically.

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, get to know your neighbors. Alert them to the fact that your loved one may not be able to fend for him or herself in case of an emergency. Make sure that they are aware that your loved one should not be seen leaving the home alone.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Email me at mhayes@seniorhelpers.com