Alzheimer’s and Dementia, they affect the lives of so many of our elderly. According to the Alzheimer’s Association:
Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.
and
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Memory loss is an example. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia.
These diseases can drastically change the lifestyle of your loved one. Their way of living is altered by these diseases. A person affected by these diseases can go through mood changes and are often affected by severe memory issues. In the beginning stages these symptoms are often mild but noticeable. As time goes on they can often get worse.
How many times can you remember that you turned on the news channel and saw a report about an elderly person who had some form of Alzheimer’s or Dementia who had wandered off from the home and now was no where to be found. Sure the community and local law enforcement comes out to search for them but that initial fear and panic of not knowing where your loved one is can be immense. Plus in many cases you never know how long they’ve been gone. In addition, knowing that they may not remember where they live can be an additional stressor for the caregiver.
This is why many caregivers will have door and window sensors added to their home or their loved ones home. Door and window sensors are a form of personal emergency response system (PERS). When your loved one opens a door or window where the sensor is located, a signal is sent to a central emergency response station where loved ones on a list provided by you are notified that a door or window was opened. These sensors can be turned off during the day if needed.
These sensors allow for someone close by to get to the home immediately so that they can check on their loved one. When an elderly person affected by Alzheimer’s or Dementia wanders off it can be traumatic for everyone involved. Having peace of mind in knowing that you or someone that you know will be notified if a door is opened by your loved one can help alleviate some of this stress.
Comfort Keepers Santa Clarita
23900 Lyons Ave.
Santa Clarita, CA, 91321
Tel: 661-287-4200
