How to Reduce the Risks of Living Alone With Cognitive Impairment

For many older adults, living independently is a cherished goal. However, cognitive impairment from conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can make solo living risky. Memory issues, confusion, and lapses in judgment increase the chances of accidents, wandering incidents, medication mismanagement, and more. But with some practical tips and precautions, it is possible to reduce the dangers and stay safely in your own home longer.

Assess Your Level of Impairment

The first step is getting an honest evaluation of your cognitive abilities from your doctor or neurologist. Determine which areas are most affected – memory, executive function, language skills, etc. This will help you identify your strengths and vulnerabilities so you can put appropriate safeguards in place.

Reduce Fall Hazards

Falls are a major risk for the cognitively impaired living alone. Keep floors clear of clutter, loose rugs, and anything that could cause tripping. Install grab bars in bathrooms and use non-slip mats. Ensure stairways have sturdy handrails on both sides. Proper lighting is also key to prevent accidents.

Simplify the Home

Visual clutter and an abundance of knickknacks or decorations can be disorienting for someone with cognitive issues. Streamline your home by removing unnecessary furniture and clutter. Stick to simple, minimalist decor. Label drawers and cabinets to make organization intuitive.

Address Wandering Risks

People with advanced dementia are at high risk of wandering away from home and getting lost. Take precautions like installing alarms on all exterior doors and disguising exit points. Hide car keys and disable vehicles if wandering becomes an issue. Consider enrolling in a 24/7 wandering response service.

Kitchen & Cooking Safety

Limited judgment and memory can make cooking hazardous. Remove burners from the stove or disable unused ones. Install automatic shut-off devices for ovens and cooktops. Use plastic utensils, plates, and cups to eliminate sharp objects. Consider simplified meal programs that deliver prepared foods.

Use Medication Reminders

Missing dosages or mismanaging medications is extremely dangerous. Make use of pill organizers, apps, timers, and other reminder systems to ensure you take your medicines properly. Ask the pharmacy to provide easy-open bottles and put all medication information in large print.

Leverage Home Care Services

One of the best ways to maintain independence at home with cognitive impairment is hiring professional home care services in Sudbury, MA. Caregivers can make home visits on a regular schedule to assist with tasks like cooking, cleaning, bathing, and medication reminders. Many agencies provide specialized dementia care.

Simplify Your Finances

Financial mismanagement can put you at risk of being exploited, losing money, or failing to pay important bills. Set up automatic payments for utilities, mortgage, and other essentials. Use a cashless system like debit cards to prevent mishandling cash. Consider appointing a trustworthy power of attorney.

Keep a Routine

Routines and schedules provide structure and stability that can reduce confusion. Wake up, eat meals, perform hygiene, and go to bed at consistent times each day. Follow a regular schedule for taking medications and attending appointments. Keep a calendar of daily activities posted in a visible place.

With the proper precautions and support network in place, many people with mild to moderate cognitive impairment can continue living safely and happily at home alone for quite some time. The above tips can go a long way towards reducing risks. But ultimately, it requires vigilance, adaptability, and acceptance that with cognitive changes, adjustments will be necessary to maintain independence. By being proactive, you can maximize your ability to age comfortably in your own place.