In the first stage of Alzheimers disease, memory loss is not as pronounced as in the later stages of the disease. People still remember places they live in and familiar faces. They are still lucid and involved in their own decisions. If your loved one lives alone, you may wonder if he lives in a safe environment. If you believe the environment may not be safe, you can hire a geriatric care manager to assess the situation, and if necessary (and if your finances support it), in-home care to come and visit your loved one on a daily basis. Those all the people will be able to report back to you and you will be more relaxed knowing your loved one is getting grand care.
If a geriatric care manager is not appropriate, and your loved one is not living with you, you can have to move your loved one closer to you. You might
discuss the situation with him. If he were to live with you, would he absolutely need constant supervision or would he be safe alone while you are gone? If you feel more relaxed
with supervision and you feel it is needed, you might
call social services or check the Alzheimers Association for help in locating an in-home aide. They may have a list of many people
that are qualified to help with Alzheimers disease and dementia.
If your loved one should live with you, you will have to build it a safe environment. Make sure you have no clutter on the floor, pick up any magazines, potted flowers, and generate space between furniture so he can go around without any problems. Your home will have to be as safe as possible. If your loved one lives with you, he may at first feel disoriented. This is part of Alzheimers disease. While most people may easily distinguish among many different noises, colors, or patterns in a room, your loved one with Alzheimers may feel confused or overwhelmed. Because of this, you positive need
to create a calm environment that will be familiar, quiet and comfortable.
In reorganizing your home to make it a safe environment you will have to focus on consistency. Keep furniture in the same place; just move them apart a little bit. Help your loved one maintain a connection with the past and familiar faces. Familiar objects such as framed photographs, or a piece of clothing that he likes, will generate it easier on him. Use contrast. A person with Alzheimers may not be able to distinguish between an off-white door and a beige wall. Make sure you pay attention to flooring and keep it simple. Use flooring that cuts down on glare. If it is too shiny the person with Alzheimers may think it is wet. You can utilize carpet to avoid slipping.
Maintaining a safe, secure environment is best for everyone. Not only will it build your loved one physically safe, but it will also give you peace of mind.