7 Tips for Keeping Patients Safe & Warm
Below freezing temperatures from recent Arctic blasts are dangerous for everyone, but may be even more dangerous for those with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's patients may have difficulty distinguishing weather changes or may not know who to call for help. Caregivers and families can take a few easy precautions to keep their loved one with Alzheimer's safe.
1. Know the signs of hypothermia. Shivering, exhaustion, sleepiness, slurred speech, memory loss and clumsy motor skills may indicate your loved one needs immediate medical attention.
2. Avoid using electric blankets to keep Alzheimer's or dementia patients warm, as these can easily burn their skin without them realizing the blanket is too hot.
3. Keep stairs and walkways clear from ice and snow to avoid slips and falls. Alzheimer's patients tend to have vision problems that can make it harder for them to see ice and know a walkway is slippery.
5. Keep an eye out for wandering, which is a common problem with Alzheimer's patients. Have a plan of action ready in case your loved one does go out wandering, such as labeling clothing with contact information, and keeping up-to-date photos of your loved one on hand for police and others to identify him if he is lost. Tracking GPS devices are also a good idea to have patients wear or carry.
6. Have a contingency plan in place in case your regular caregiver cannot reach the patient due to inclement weather. If you work with an agency or home care provider, talk to them to learn about options, or find someone who lives nearby who can stand-in.
7. Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from your heating system.
