Patients and families living with Alzheimer’s disease have a lot to think about. It can be overwhelming emotionally, financially and physically. You may be confused, frustrated, angry, scared or depressed. It’s important to learn as much as you can about Alzheimer’s disease and have people who support you.
It’s essential to make sure the space you live in is safe and supportive. What you need to keep yourself safe depends a lot on your Alzheimer’s disease symptoms and what stage you are in. Learn more about the stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Here are some things to consider for your safety and review with your care team:
- Keep things like keys, wallet and phone in the same place at home.
- Plan ahead for the help you will need to get groceries, make meals and get to and from appointments. At some point, you will no longer be able to drive.
- Make sure your phone has an app that can track where you are.
- Get rid of furniture you don’t need. Reduce clutter.
- Use a calendar or whiteboard to keep track of your appointments.
- Set up automatic payment for your bills and deposit for regular checks.
- Put handrails on the stairs and in the bathroom.
- Program your emergency and other key contacts into your phone.
- Get an I.D. or medical alert bracelet that says you have Alzheimer’s disease.
- Get rid of throw rugs. Put nonskid strips on wood and tile floors and in the bathtub.
- Stay as active as you can.
- Eat as healthy as you can.
- Have a system for setting up and taking your medications.
- Take someone you trust to your appointments with you. It may be helpful to have two sets of ears listening about your care.
- Join a support group.
- Learn about what resources are available in your community.
As the disease gets worse, you will need help from other people to keep you safe and secure. It is helpful to plan ahead and ask for help. Here are some things to consider:
- Put alarm sensors on doors and windows.
- Get rid of mirrors. Images in the mirror may be scary or confusing to someone with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Unplug the stove and microwave.
- Lock up electrical appliances.
- Set the water heater to less than 120°F.
- Put a decal on windows and doors so the person won’t bump into them.
- Put a list of emergency contacts, key phone numbers and your medications on the refrigerator.
- Reach out to resources in the community.
Paying attention to home safety can help patients with Alzheimer’s disease stay independent for as long as possible. It can also take away some of the stress of caregiving. Talk to your care team or a support group to get and share ideas.
CVS Specialty® and Coram® CVS Specialty Infusion Services (Coram) have partnered to dispense and administer Alzheimer’s therapy to patients. Choose pickup or contactless delivery of your infusion therapy and supplies to your door. Find out more about CVS Specialty here.]
This information is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about your medical condition and prior to starting any new treatment. Coram assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided or for any diagnosis or treatment made as a result.
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