Safety Products for Alzheimer’s Patients

Donna Nichols • September 20, 2021

Assisted Living Made Simple holds (3) three Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Groups a month and are often asked what are some good products to keep our loved ones engaged and safe?

We’ll start with some items to keep them engaged.

Products to keep them engaged

Fidget quilts – these are lap throws that have things to keep them busy like zippers, buttons, belts and ties. However, if you see they start to get frustrated or it becomes too difficult for them, take it away from them gently.

Fidget Quilts

Larger size puzzles – wooden puzzles designed to make it easier for the person to complete it and have a sense of accomplishment.

Large size puzzles

Therapy pets – these pets are designed to have a calming and soothing effect on Alzheimer’s patients. They are so life-like and give the person a sense of purpose again as they must care for the pet.

Therapy pets for alzheimer patients

Twiddle muff – almost like a fidget quilt on the outside, it too has buttons, ribbons and beads, but on the inside in a squishy ball for them to squeeze to keep their hands busy.

Twiddle Muffs

Safety products:

Senior Cell Phone w/ Picture Dialing + GPS – they won’t have to remember phone numbers, only look at the picture and push the one they want to call. These cell phones come with a GPS tracking system so you will know where your loved one is at all times.

Phone for seniors with picture dialing

Wander alert alarm – if your loved one lives with you and not in a memory care facility yet and they tend to wander, you must have an alarm on the doors. The alarm alerts you when a door is being opened and most of them do not require the internet.

Wander alert alarm system

Door confounding lock – this is a special Alzheimer’s door lock that does not look like a lock. It opens by sliding the inner tab to unlock; caregivers will be able to open the lock, but those with Alzheimer’s will not be able to figure it out.

Door Confounding lock for alzheimers patients

Mats with wireless remote sensors – you can place these mats in chairs and/or beds and if the person tries to rise without help it will alert you. This is an easy way to prevent falls.

Wireless remote mat sensors

Do not enter signs – these signs can be placed on doors leading outside or where combustible materials could be stored to deter loved ones from opening the door.

Do not enter signs

Safety in the Home

    • Have emergency numbers and home address clearly visible by the telephone
    • Avoid using extension cords; they are a huge trip hazard
    • Cover unused electrical outlets
    • Turn the phone ringer on low when not home and use an answering machine to ensure you receive your messages and the Alzheimer’s person doesn’t fall prey to scammers
    • Make sure you have smoke detectors installed in the kitchen and bedroom areas
    • Avoid clutter and keep walkways free of furniture
    • Clearly mark all medications with the person’s name, drug name and strength, dosage and expiration date. Locking them up will ensure no accidents can happen.
    • Keep steps outside sturdy and place textured strips on them to prevent slips in icy or wet weather
    • If you have a swimming pool, consider fencing it in with a locking gate
    • Remove propane tanks and lighters from grills
    • Set a small bench by the front door to place items on while unlocking the door
    • Install motion sensor lights outside to light the path while the person walks
    • Make sure bushes are well away from walkways
    • Place a no soliciting sign at the front door

There are many things you can do around the house to keep your loved one suffering with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia safe. It’s as simple as purchasing products or making simple adjustments to rooms around your home.

Should you find that Alzheimer’s or dementia has declined so far and you just can’t take care of your loved one anymore, please reach out to us ; this is what we do and we would be honored to assist you!

If you’re looking for other senior living articles and resources then click here.

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Benefits of Assisted Living

By Donna Nichols • May 2, 2025
Assisted living has many benefits, especially for older adults or people needing help with daily activities but not requiring full-time medical care. Here's a quick breakdown: Independence and support Residents get to maintain a level of independence while having access to help with things like: Bathing, dressing, or grooming Medication management Meal preparation So they still have freedom without the stress of handling everything alone. Access to care Staff is usually available 24/7, and while it’s not a nursing home, many places have nurses or aides on hand for basic health needs, depending on their licensure. It’s a safety net in case anything happens. Meals & housekeeping Daily meals, cleaning, laundry, and other chores are usually included, which reduces stress and gives you more time to enjoy life. Social life Assisted living communities often have activities, group outings, and common areas, which can help prevent loneliness and boost mental health. Safety & security These places are designed with safety in mind, such as grab bars, emergency call systems, and accessible layouts. Plus, knowing someone’s always nearby gives peace of mind. Peace of mind (for families, too) Families often feel relieved knowing their loved one is in a supportive environment where help is readily available. As you can see, assisted living has many benefits. If you feel it is unsafe for you or your loved one to live alone, please consider assisted living. It will give you peace of mind and them the safety and security they require.  If you or a loved one is ready to move to assisted living, please call us at 386-847-2322. We are experts in senior care.

What’s in Your Box?

By Donna Nichols • April 8, 2025
What does that mean? It means what’s important to you. What do you want to take with you should you leave your home and move to an assisted living community? Assisted living apartments typically range from 500 to 900 square feet, so if you come from a home that is 2,000 square feet, you will be losing a significant amount of square footage. What’s important to me may not be important to you; it differs for everyone. You’ll want to balance practical needs with personal comforts when thinking about what to bring. Here's a breakdown of what might be in your box and what to consider taking with you: When preparing to move into an assisted living community, the "box" is a metaphor for the essentials or comforts you’re packing to make the space your own. Here’s what could go in that box: Personal Essentials: Clothing: Comfortable, easy-to-wear clothes, including shoes that are safe for walking (like non-slip footwear). Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lotion, and other personal hygiene items. Medications: A well-organized container for daily meds (check with staff for any medication regulations). Comforting Personal Items: Photographs: Family pictures, old albums, or framed photos of pets can help create a homier feel. Favorite Books or Magazines: If you love to read, packing a few favorite books or magazines can be comforting. Blankets or Throw Pillows: Soft, cozy items that remind you of home. Technology: Cell phone or tablet: Stay in touch with family and friends. If needed, a simple phone with larger buttons might be helpful. Charger and headphones: Keep your devices powered up and ready for entertainment or communication. Entertainment & Hobbies: Crafts, puzzles, or knitting: Hobbies like knitting, crocheting, or painting can offer a good mental boost. Music: A playlist or a device with your favorite tunes. Maybe even a small portable speaker. Documents: Important papers: Health documents, insurance information, and personal identification should always be within easy reach. Safety Items: Walkers or canes: If you use mobility aids, don't forget these items. Glasses and Hearing Aids: Any vision or hearing accessories you rely on to help with daily life. What would you take with you? When moving into an assisted living community, you may not have the space for everything you own, so bringing only the most meaningful and necessary items is important. Here's a breakdown of what to take with you: Personal Care and Health Items: Your medications, medical devices (like CPAP machines), and other health-related essentials should come. Items like hearing aids, glasses, and dentures are crucial to have on hand. Don’t forget a first aid kit with basic items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer. Bedding and Furniture: Sheets, blankets, and pillows that are soft and familiar. If allowed, take small, comfortable furniture like a favorite chair or nightstand. Decorative Touches: Personal touches such as a family photo frame, a small vase, or your favorite artwork can make a new space feel welcoming. Consider a small rug to help make the room feel warmer and more comfortable. Clothing: Comfortable clothing that suits the climate where you’ll be living. Slippers and non-slip shoes are very important for safety and comfort. Seasonal clothing: Depending on the time of year, pack sweaters, jackets, hats, or lighter clothes. Technology: Smartphone or tablet for keeping in touch with family and friends. A Kindle or e-reader could be a great option if you like to read but want to save space. Tangible Keepsakes: A small heirloom, a favorite book, or a memory box filled with meaningful trinkets can bring emotional comfort in a new place. Food & Kitchen Tools (if allowed): Some assisted living communities may allow you to have a few personal items for snacks, like a mini fridge or microwave in your room. Favorite snacks or special foods you enjoy might be comforting to have on hand. Considerations for Your New Space Each assisted living community has its own rules and space limitations, so it’s a good idea to ask what you can bring and what is already provided. Many communities offer furniture, housekeeping, and even activities, so your primary focus may be personalizing your space with items that truly bring you joy and comfort. Ultimately, the most important things to take will help you feel settled, safe, and supported in this new chapter of your life. What’s in your box for this kind of move? Are there any personal items you would want to make sure are packed?

Live in the Now

By Shar Barron • April 1, 2025
Why do we wait? Now is here. Buy the pretty flowers, eat the cake, call that old friend, and tell “your person” you love them. I see couples staring at their phones in restaurants instead of each other, and it saddens me. My husband is gone, and oh, how I’d love to sit and stare at him, talk to him over a meal. I used to go home and hear, “How was your day?” Now, I hear only silence. I didn’t miss his voice until it was no more. What I wouldn’t give to hear it again. Living in the now means you look forward to that greeting or sharing that meal. Who can I tell my secrets to? Who will never tell another soul? My guy was my confidant, and I miss that so much! I have no one to be silly with or cry with; all that is gone forever. You need to breathe. Sometimes, that little breath gives you time to remember the good things. Instead of rushing around and trying to do so much… Today is a gift. That gift is now, and if you take a breath… Sometimes, you realize how blessed you are. Look up at the sky, listen to the birds chirp, and watch the sun rise and set… Just take that moment, take that breath, and enjoy the now. If you think of someone, don’t hesitate to call them. If you want to go somewhere, don’t wait. The best advice that can be given is to simply breathe and recognize that this moment is the most important part of your day. The NOW matters. You realize it too late most of the time. Value the NOW. Make the NOW matter! Embrace the precious little moments. Savor the nonsensical words. The NOW is priceless; realize it before you don’t have someone to share it with. Live in the NOW before it’s gone.  God gave you the gift of NOW - what a priceless treasure. Grab it and enjoy those NOW moments. There are so many, and those memories are baked into your bones to treasure forever.
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