Living Safely with Alzheimer’s.

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

1. Memory changes that affect day-to-day abilities
2. Difficulty doing familiar tasks 
3. Changes in language and communication 
4. Disorientation in time and place 
5. Impaired judgment 
6. Problems with abstract thinking
7. Misplacing things 
8. Changes in mood, personality and behaviour
9. Loss of initiative 
10. Challenges understanding visual and spatial information

If you are concerned about these or other signs, talk to a healthcare provider. Visit the Alzheimer Society Canada website for useful links and resources

Arming yourself with reliable information or joining a support group can provide peace of mind as well as a sense of next steps. 

While moving to a retirement residence may be the right course of action eventually, there are ways to ensure safety in the meantime.

Living Safely with Alzheimer’s

1.   Create a daily routine. Maintaining a regular routine for meals, exercise, hygiene and sleep and can calm the spirit, boost the mood and help ensure that everyday tasks get done,
2.   Organize back-ups. Leave a set of keys with a neighbour or trusted friend who can easily—and quickly!—access the home. Arrange regular phone or in-person check-ins from family or friends once a day. Social connection can help with the anxiety associated with Alzheimer’s.
3.   Install in-home safety measures. Minimize the chance of accidents with safety railings,  non-slip stair treads and automatic shut-off on appliances. 
4.   Consider meal delivery options. Fresh, delicious meals that are ready to eat ensure that a healthy diet is maintained, without the need for sharp utensils or a hot oven.
5.   The Alzheimer’s Society’s “All About Me” booklet is a great tool for those living with dementia. It is a journal they can fill out to keep track of routines, important contact information, and more.

Reach out  to the Memory Care specialists at The Shores of Port Credit to discuss lifestyle options for yourself or for someone you love.