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Ask Dr. Vicki
Spring Senior Safety Tips
Alzheimer's Caregiver Tips: Dining & Hydration
Dr. Vicki Rackner M.D., noted author, is an expert in doctor-patient relations and caregiver stress. Whether you have a question about health, wellness or caregiver stress, the answer is just a click away.
"When I was a practicing surgeon, my job was to come up with the best answers for each patient; now as your caregiver coach I'm here to help you find the best questions. Then you and your loved ones and their doctors can come up with the best answers for you."
As the weather gets warmer and the flowers start to bloom, many seniors leave their homes more often during the day. Dangerous driving, unsafe walking conditions and risky vacationing can be worrisome on families.
- Don't hide keys under the doormat, in the mailbox or in a planter.
- Make sure the street number on your house is large, well-lit and unobstructed so emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
- Purchase an ABC multipurpose fire extinguisher for the home. Check yearly to verify the extinguisher is working.
- Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall to avoid falls.
- Fix loose handrails on outdoor porches and patios or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and are as long as the stairs.
Keep your car in peak operating condition by scheduling routine maintenance with a mechanic.
- Tires: Check the tire presssure and make sure your tires have sufficient tread.
- Radiator: Have the anti-freeze levels checked.
- Belts: Inspect the belts and hoses for cracks or leaks.
- Oil: Have the oil filter changed.
- Wipers: Inspect the windshield wipers and wiper fluid to ensure better visibility.
- Battery: Make sure the battery is fully charged.
- Drive during daylight hours if you have trouble seeing well in reduced light.
- Wear shoes that are flexible, non-skid with Velcro straps.
- Make sure all walkways around your home are well-lit.
- Hold your purse close or keep your wallet in an inside front pocket.
- Don't carry large amounts of cash or unneeded credit cards.
- Sit near the driver or the exit when riding on a bus, train or subway.
- Use a direct deposit service for Social Security and other regular checks.
- Notify neighbors and the police when going away on a trip.
- Cancel all regular deliveries such as newspapers. Arrange for your mail to be held at the Post Office.
- Get any vaccinations or medicines that you will need before your trip.
- Learn about travel health risks depending on your travel destination.
- Prepare a traveler's health kit. Visit www.cdc.gov for a checklist of items to keep you safe during your travels.
Mealtime can be challenging for a loved one with Alzheimer's or memory loss due to poor depth perception and physical changes.
Click below for tips to help make meal times more enjoyable.
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