Jun 1, 2021
Alzheimer’s Disease and Living Alone: Four Signs Someone May Not Be Safe at Home Alone
Welcome to This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World, I’m your host Melissa Batchelor, and today I’ll be sharing Alzheimer’s Disease and Living Alone: Four Signs Someone May Not Be Safe at Home Alone – and what you can do about it.
A lot of people have asked me what some of the signs are that a loved one may be experiencing memory loss, when the person lives alone or you don’t live close by to see them every day. When someone lives alone, it’s easier for them to cover up memory problems. You may have to get a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your loved one if you can’t be there in person.
If you are concerned about someone living alone and whether or not they are in need of help, here are 4 changes you can consider and questions to think about:
#1: Changes in Phone Calls:
#2: Changes in Emailing or Writing:
#3: Changes in Personality or Habits:
#4: Changes with Meals or Medications:
What Can You Do?
If you’re loved one is experiencing one or more problems in these 4 areas, it would be wise to consult with your primary care provider. They are likely not safe, or becoming not safe, to live alone. These signs may be indicative of a major safety issue, so better to address them sooner rather than later, to avoid severe or even fatal accidents.
You can also contact the Alzheimer’s Association Chapter in your community or your local Area Agency on Aging. These two organizations will typically know who can help families who are providing care at a distance and can give you valuable information and connect you to services.
Thank you for watching this video or listening to the podcast today. I hope these 4 Signs, questions, and recommendations have been helpful to you.