Alzheimer's Disease and Home Safety: Is it Safe to Leave the Person Alone?
Many caregivers wonder if it is safe to leave a person with Alzheimer's disease alone. This issue needs careful evaluation and is certainly a safety concern. Clues that may help you to decide if the person can be alone include, does the person with Alzheimer's disease:
Become confused or unpredictable under stress?
Recognize a dangerous situation, for example, fire?
Know how to use the telephone in an emergency?
Know how to get help?
Stay content within the home?
Wander and become disoriented?
Show signs of agitation, depression, or withdrawal when left alone for any period of time?
Attempt to pursue former interests or hobbies that might now warrant supervision such as cooking, appliance repair, or woodworking?
You may want to seek input and advice from a healthcare professional to assist you in these considerations. As Alzheimer's disease progresses, these questions will need ongoing evaluation.
You can read more about Alzheimer's disease and home safety by going to the following eMedTV articles:
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