Updated September 14, 2026 · General education, not individual professional advice.
Make the home easier to use
Check walking paths, lighting, stairs, bathroom supports, and kitchen hazards. Review safe storage for medicines, cleaners, tools, and firearms. Keep exits usable in a fire; a lock or alert must never leave a person trapped.
- Test smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms and discuss the escape plan.
- Ask about grab bars, transfer support, and mobility equipment suited to the person.
- Check water temperature and appliance safety. Do not improvise restraints or unsafe barriers.
Learn more: Alzheimer’s Association: Home safety ↗
Wandering and exit seeking
A person may leave to follow an old routine, seek a familiar place, or meet a need. Plan with trusted people before an emergency. Door alerts or location devices are supports, not guarantees or substitutes for needed supervision.
- Keep a current photo, contact plan, and useful identifying details ready and private.
- If the person wants to leave, ask where they are going and offer safe accompaniment when possible.
- If someone is missing or in immediate danger, call 911 and say they are a vulnerable adult. Do not delay seeking help to finish a checklist.
Learn more: Alzheimer’s Association: Wandering ↗
Driving, transport, and outings
Have driving conversations early and involve the clinician or a qualified driving evaluator. Plan alternative transport that protects access to valued activities. Rules about reporting and licensing vary by location.
- Write down concrete concerns rather than arguing about age or a diagnosis.
- If there is immediate driving danger, prevent the trip safely and seek help.
- If a seatbelt cannot be used correctly or is repeatedly released, stop in a safe place and ask the care team about safe transport; do not improvise restraints.
Learn more: Alzheimer’s Association: Driving and dementia ↗
Medicines, scams, and financial exploitation
Use the current medication instructions and ask a pharmacist about organization, missed doses, or refusal. For suspicious calls or payment requests, pause and verify independently with the organization through a known contact.
- Never change a dose or crush a tablet without professional advice.
- Agree on trusted help reviewing bills and suspicious messages while preserving choice and privacy.
- If you suspect exploitation or abuse, seek help from local adult protective services or law enforcement; use emergency services for immediate danger.
Learn more: Alzheimer’s Association: Medication safety ↗ · Eldercare Locator: Find local services ↗
Source links and educational wording checked on September 14, 2026. This is not a clinical review. For questions about your situation, contact a qualified medical, legal, or financial professional.