Non-profit provides essential training and tips on how to interact with and protect people with the disease
Alzheimer’s New Jersey, a non-profit which provides programs and services to the residents of New Jersey affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, recognized Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in November by focusing on the importance of safety for the 180,000 people in New Jersey diagnosed with the disease.
“Because of the memory loss and confusion associated with Alzheimer’s disease, safety is an important consideration. It is important that caregivers as well as police officers and other first responders understand Alzheimer’s disease and the role that memory loss and confusion play in communication and behavior changes including wandering behavior,” said Ken Zaentz, president and CEO of Alzheimer’s NJ.
Alzheimer’s New Jersey provides information and resources that support police officers, first responders and caregivers regarding safety and the person with Alzheimer’s disease. This includes wandering behavior which is common and can be very dangerous.
- Be aware that a person in any stage of Alzheimer’s disease can get lost and that wandering can put the person at serious risk.
- Make sure the person wears an identification bracelet.
- Have family/friends/companions/aids join the person on walks.
- Keep items out of sight that may prompt them to leave (i.e., coats, hats, purses, etc.).
- Decorate the door to the outside so that it is not recognized as a doorway or put a STOP sign on the inside of any exterior door.
- Be aware that wandering may be more likely in unfamiliar places. Do not leave the person alone when traveling, shopping, etc.
- Make sure stairwells are lit and use nightlights for bathrooms and hallways.
- Use contrasting colors. For example, painting the edge of a step a different color than the rest of the floor will make that step easier to see.
- Ensure carpets are fully tacked to the ground and avoid throw rugs.
- Install grab bars and a bath chair in the tub and shower.
- Use medication dispensing products or have family/caregiver dispense medication.
- Consider installing a shut-off valve for the stove.
- Secure tools, gardening equipment and appliances that the person no longer remembers how to operate safely without assistance.
- If the person is not safe to be home alone, consider home care, adult day services and/or alternative living situations to assure 24/7 supervision and safety.
In addition to Always Safe, Alzheimer’s New Jersey (formerly the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey Chapter) provides local programs and services that assist those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and their caregivers in New Jersey. Visit alznj.org or call 888-280-6055 for more information.
About Alzheimer’s New Jersey
Since 1985, Alzheimer’s New Jersey has provided care and support for New Jersey families and has helped advance research for a cure. As Alzheimer’s New Jersey (formerly called the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey Chapter), their commitment to local programs and services is stronger than ever. Their mission is to respond to the needs of people in New Jersey who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, by providing programs and community partnerships that increase awareness and access to services. Visit alznj.org or call 888-280-6055for more information.
