Know Someone with Dementia? Don't Forget these Summer Safety Tips

School's out, frost warnings are finally ending, and summer is almost here. It's time to re-introduce ourselves to the neighbors and spend some quality time outdoors. As we enjoy the warmer weather, it's important to think about how this season of heat, sunshine and open windows may affect a loved one or neighbor with Alzheimer's disease or other kind of dementia. Sunlight and fresh air are a bonus for everyone, with several benefit for our bodies, our moods and our minds. There are, however, some safety risks for people with dementia that increase in the summer. One of those areas to consider is the possibility of a loved one wandering away and getting lost. In the middle of a blustery snow storm, fewer people will attempt to go outside, although it's clearly more dangerous if they do. But when the temperature is warm, the sun is shining, and a gentle breeze is blowing, who can resist going for a walk outside? The goal, if you're caring for someone with memory loss, is not to completely prevent him from going outside, but instead to offer him time outside with safeguards in place. Consider joining him in going for a walk, or setting up an alarm system so that you're alerted when he's going outside. Make sure he has an identification bracelet on his wrist, and ensure adequate supervision by scheduling family visits or arranging home health care services. Here's the complete article that outlines several other practical tips on summer safety for those with dementia: Tips ...
Source: About Alzheimers Disease - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news