One of the most frequent problems with people with Alzheimer’s disease is the risk of falling. It is thought that about 60% of people who have Alzheimer’s fall at least once per year.

And, WebMD.com reports that if your loved one falls more often, this could actually be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease. The site noted that a study of 125 adults who seemed healthy, but had large deposits of plaque in their brains, had suffered falls in the recent past.

The great news is that most falls can be easily prevented in patients with Alzheimers – with enough knowledge and foresight. We would like you to keep the following ideas in mind as you are caring for your loved one in and out of the home.

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Fall risk can easily be reduced for your loved one, if you keep a few key points in mind.

Reduced Mobility

When you take your patient out of the house, be aware that their mobility and balance has been compromised. People who have Alzheimer’s disease tend to be cautious as they walk, because they are aware that their balance is not as good as it was. This will mean that your mom will sometimes shuffle her feet and will not lift her feet. This can cause your mother to easily trip and fall. It is a good idea to take your mother’s arm when she is walking any distance. There also are many helpful Alzheimer’s products available to prevent falls.

Your mother also will not have as much of an ability to keep her balance when she is standing and sitting. She also may have trouble going up steps as well. Providing her with a steady hand at these moments will be just what she needs.

Reduced Cognitive Abilities

A loss of cognitive function is one of the common aspects of Alzheimer’s disease, and it affects their memory and thinking. This of course will put them at a higher risk for falls both in the home and when out and about.

Your loved one may not understand that she has the potential to fall and will not understand that she needs help. She also will not have good judgement, and may not recognize the limits of her ability to move about in her condition. She also may not remember that she has a lot of trouble walking without your help, or without a fall prevention aid.

But with you at her side being aware of this, you will easily be able to prevent any problems.

Medications

Your loved one will probably be on several types of medications to deal with her disease. Taking too much of certain drugs can reduce their judgement and ability to walk safely. Be sure that you are managing her drug regimen properly and she is taking the proper dosages in the right combinations. Note that good medication management products are available to help you handle your loved one’s medication needs, such as Pill Crusher Splitter Cups.

Environment

About half of all falls occur in the home, and the rest occur out in public. Wherever your loved one is, you want to be sure that there is enough lighting, the room is not cluttered, and the floors are not slippery.

If you are going to take your loved one out, there are several fall prevention products you should consider:

Please remember: The risk of your loved one falling can easily be mitigated by keeping these concepts and Alzheimer’s supplies in mind as you work with her in the house and in public.