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Persons living with dementia, especially in the earlier stages of dementia, may choose to live alone to maintain their independence for as long as possible, or to remain in a familiar neighbourhood. As the dementia progresses to moderate and advanced stages, it is likely that alternate living arrangements have to be made.
Here are some tips for you, as a caregiver, on how you can offer care to your loved one with dementia who lives alone.
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Make your loved one’s self-care easier
Your loved one may forget to shower, change their clothes and have their meals. They may also forget to perform housekeeping duties, or to feed pets, amongst other tasks.
● Arrange for meal delivery services and housekeeping services.
● Write reminders and stick them on places they will look at (fridge, bedroom, living room, etc.). For example, you could write notes that read “Feed the pets”, “Remember to turn off the stove”, “Sweep the floor”, etc.
● Large and easy-to-read clocks and calendars will help your loved one to orient themselves to the time and date. -
Improve safety in your loved one’s home
Your loved one may lack judgment in dangerous situations such as those involving hazardous electrical appliances and slippery floors.
● Install non-slip mats and grab bars in the bathroom.
● Remove hazards from the house such as faulty kitchen appliances, clutter, fire hazards and broken furniture.
● Use technology in the form of monitoring systems to help track your loved one’s mobility in the house. -
Involve others in your loved one’s care
A person living with dementia may exhibit behaviour that is hard to understand or accept. This may lead to unfriendliness or trouble with the neighbours, the police, and the community.
● Involve other family members in caregiving and take turns to visit your loved one regularly. If regular visiting is not possible, communicate regularly with your loved one via phone call or text.
● Explain your loved one’s situation to neighbours and local shopkeepers so that they can help keep an eye out for your loved one in the community.
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