Devices that help with dementia care can reduce your anxiety and stress. Caring for a parent with dementia is already hard. When you’re not there with your mom or dad, you’ll find yourself worrying. Are they really sleeping? Did they get out of the house and forget how to get back home?
Here are some of the devices that can reduce your anxiety and keep your parent safe.
GPS Tracker
Make sure your mom or dad wears a GPS tracker. If they do get out of the house unnoticed and don’t find the way back home, the device helps pinpoint a current location. If you’re uncertain your parent would wear a wristband, there are GPS trackers you can place in a pocket. There are shoe liners you slip into shoes.
Partner a tracker with a medic alert necklace or bracelet. If your parent does go missing, someone who finds your mom or dad will quickly recognize that Alzheimer’s is a factor and that there’s a number they can call to get help.
Challenging Door Locks
You need sleep. Your mom often wakes up and tries to go for walks. With a challenging door lock, you can rest easy knowing she won’t be able to get outside. These locks attach to the door and frame and create a solid latch. Being able to open the door lock requires a little effort. You must remember a couple different steps in order to unlock it.
If that’s not ideal, look for bolts that you can install at the top of a door frame or near the floor. Your mom or dad won’t be able to open the door without looking up or down and realizing there’s another lock.
Appliance Shut-Offs
If your mom or dad tries to cook meals, install a device that turns off a stove or oven after no movement is detected for a few minutes. You’ll be able to override the shut-off when you’re ready to cook the next meal. It connects to your cell phone or tablet and alerts you if gas has been shut off or there’s a problem.
Make sure you’re getting enough rest. If you’re drained, you’re likely to be easily irritated. Alzheimer’s care requires patience. If you need a break, home health care providers are a great solution. They offer respite care. For an hour or two, you can go out while the home health care aide takes your place. Learn more about fees and respite care services by calling our home health care agency now.