Elliott Nursing and Rehabilitation is excited to share resident Vickie Pennington’s Success Story!

Ms. Pennington came to Elliott Nursing and Rehabilitation for short-term rehabilitation following a femur fracture that left her weak, unsteady, and needing assistance with daily tasks. From the very beginning, she was determined to get back home as quickly as possible—and with the help of our amazing Occupational and Physical Therapy teams, she did just that!

Through perseverance, hard work, and the skilled support of her Care Team, Ms. Pennington made incredible progress step by step. Today, she has achieved her goal of returning home to her family. Congratulations, Ms. Pennington, you are an inspiration to us all!

Have you ever felt dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room were spinning around you? These can be troublesome sensations. If the feeling happens often, it could be a sign of a balance problem.

Many older adults experience problems with balance and dizziness. Problems can be caused by certain medications, balance disorders, or other medical conditions. Balance problems are one reason older people fall. Maintaining good balance as you age and learning about fall prevention can help you get around, stay independent, and carry out daily activities.

Causes of balance problems

People are more likely to have problems with balance as they grow older. In some cases, you can help reduce your risk for certain balance problems, but problems often can start suddenly and without obvious cause.

Balance problems can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions. The list below covers some common causes of balance problems.

• Medications. Check with your doctor if you notice balance problems while taking certain medications. Ask if other medications can be used instead, if the dosage can be safely reduced, or if there are other ways to reduce unwanted side effects.
• Inner ear problems. A part of the inner ear called the labyrinth is responsible for balance. When the labyrinth becomes inflamed, a condition called labyrinthitis occurs, causing vertigo and imbalance. Certain ear diseases and infections can lead to labyrinthitis.
• Alcohol. Alcohol in the blood can also cause dizziness and balance problems by affecting how the inner ear works.
• Other medical conditions. Certain conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or problems with your vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels can cause dizziness and other balance problems.

Visit the NIH National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders website for more information on specific balance disorders.

Symptoms of balance disorders

If you have a balance disorder, you might experience symptoms such as:

• Dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation)
• Falling or feeling as if you are going to fall
• Staggering when you try to walk
• Lightheadedness, faintness, or a floating sensation
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or disorientation

Other symptoms might include nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; changes in heart rate and blood pressure and feelings of fear, anxiety, or panic. Symptoms may come and go over short periods or last for a long time and can lead to fatigue and depression.

Treatments for balance problems and disorders

Exercises that involve moving the head and body in certain ways can help treat some balance disorders. Patient-specific exercises are developed by a physical therapist or other professional who understands balance and its relationship with other systems in the body.

Balance problems due to high blood pressure may be managed by eating less salt (sodium), maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising. Balance problems due to low blood pressure may be managed by drinking plenty of fluids such as water; avoiding alcohol; and being cautious regarding your body’s posture and movement, such as never standing up too quickly. Consult with your doctor about making any changes in your diet or activity level.

Coping with a balance disorder

Some people with a balance disorder may not be able to fully relieve their dizziness and will need to find ways to cope with it. A vestibular rehabilitation therapist can help develop an individualized treatment plan.

Chronic balance problems can affect all aspects of your life, including your relationships, work performance, and your ability to carry out daily activities. Support groups provide the opportunity to learn from other people with similar experiences and challenges.

If you have trouble with your balance, talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe to drive, and about ways to lower your risk of falling during daily activities, such as walking up or down stairs, using the bathroom, or exercising. To reduce your risk of injury from dizziness, do not walk in the dark. Avoid high heels and, instead, wear nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes. Don’t walk on stairs or floors in socks or in shoes and slippers with smooth soles. If necessary, use a cane or walker. Make changes to add safety features at your home and workplace, such as adding handrails.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/older-adults-and-balance-problems.

Many people want the same things as they get older: to stay in their own homes, to maintain independence for as long as possible, and to turn to family and friends for help when needed. Staying in your own home as you get older is called “aging in place.” But many older adults and their families have concerns about safety, getting around, or other daily activities. Living at home as you age requires careful consideration and planning. This article offers suggestions to help you find the help you need to continue to live independently.

Planning ahead for aging in place

The best time to think about how to age in place is before you need a lot of care. Planning ahead allows you to make important decisions while you are still able.

The first step is to think about the kinds of help you need now and might want in the future. You can learn about home-based care and other services in your community and find out what they cost. Planning ahead also gives you time to set up your home to meet your needs as you age.

Another step is to consider any illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, that you or your spouse might have. Find out about how the illness could make it hard for someone to get around or take care of themselves in the future. Your health care provider can help answer your questions.

Talk with your family, friends, and other caregivers about what support is needed for you to stay in your home. Be realistic and plan to revisit the decision as your needs change over time.

Support for aging at home

Home-based care includes health, personal, and other support services to help you stay at home and live as independently as possible. In-home services may be short-term — for someone who is recovering from an operation, for example — or long-term, for people who need ongoing help.

In many cases, home-based support is provided at home by informal caregivers, such as family members, friends, and neighbors. It can also be supplemented by formal caregivers and community services.

Help you can receive at home includes:

• Personal care: Help with everyday activities, also called “activities of daily living,” including bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and moving around — for example, getting out of bed and into a chair
• Household chores: Housecleaning, yard work, grocery shopping, laundry, and similar chores around the house
• Meals: Shopping for food and preparing nutritious meals
• Money management: Tasks such as paying bills and filling out health insurance forms
• Health care: Help with many aspects of health care, including giving medications, caring for wounds, helping with medical equipment, and providing physical therapy
• Transportation: Assistance getting around, such as rides to the doctor’s office or grocery store
• Safety: Home safety features and help in case of a fall or other emergency

Find detailed information about in-home support services, including suggestions for arranging them, information about costs, and additional resources.

Making your home safe and accessible

There are a variety of ways to make your surroundings safer and easier to manage so they meet your needs as you age. Go through your home room by room to identify potential problems and safety issues. First, correct any immediate dangers, such as loose stair railings and poor lighting, and then work on other ways to ensure you will be as safe as possible at home.

See the Worksheet: Home Safety Checklist (PDF, 251K) for suggestions to help you identify and remove hazards around the house. Keep in mind that it may not be necessary to make all of the suggested changes. It is important, however, to reevaluate home safety every so often as your needs change.

Are you worried that making changes might be expensive? You may be able to get help paying for repairs and safety updates to your home. Check with your state housing finance agency, social services department, community development groups, or the federal government for financial aid programs and discounts. You can also visit the Eldercare Locator or call 800-677-1116 for help finding resources.

Resources for aging in place

If staying in your home is important to you, you may have concerns about getting around, being safe, and staying connected. Some of these activities become more challenging as you age. The resources below can help you find solutions.

Reach out to people you know. Family, friends, and neighbors are the biggest source of help for many older people. They may be able to drive you to doctor’s appointments, help with errands and chores, or just keep you company. Talk with those close to you about the best way to get what you need. If you are physically able, think about trading services with a friend or neighbor. For example, one could do the grocery shopping, and the other could cook dinner.

Learn about community resources. Your local Area Agency on Aging, local and state offices on aging or social services, or your tribal organization may have lists of services. These organizations will be familiar with resources available in your community and may have tips for accessing them. Health care providers and social workers may also have suggestions. If you belong to a religious community, find out whether it offers services for older adults or ask for guidance from your pastor, rabbi, or other religious leader.

Get help during the day. Support is available if your regular caregiver isn’t available during the day (for example, because they go to work). Some organizations have volunteers who regularly pay short visits to older adults. The volunteer can provide support, assistance, and companionship. Or you might consider an adult day care program, which can offer social activities, exercise, meals, and personal care during the day. Additionally, respite services provide short-term care for an older adult at home when a regular caregiver isn’t available.

Be prepared for a medical emergency. If you have a serious allergy or medical need, talk with your doctor about whether you should get a medical alert ID bracelet or necklace. You might also consider an emergency medical alert system, which responds to medical and other emergencies via an electronic monitor that a person wears. The monitor alerts emergency personnel when a person becomes lost, falls, or needs urgent medical assistance.

Talk to a geriatric care manager. These specially trained professionals can help find resources to make your daily life easier. They will work with you to form a care plan and find services you need. Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful when family members live far apart. Your doctor or other health care provider may be able to recommend a geriatric care manager, or you can contact the Aging Life Care Association for a list of these professionals in your area.

Look into government resources. Federal, state, and local governments offer many resources for older adults and their families and caregivers. A good place to start is the Eldercare Locator, which connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. Visit the Eldercare Locator or call 800-677-1116.

How much will it cost to age in place?

An important part of planning is thinking about how you are going to pay for the help you need. Home-based services can be expensive, but they may cost less than moving into a residential facility, such as assisted living or a nursing home.

How people pay for care depends on their financial situation, their eligibility for assistance programs, and the kinds of services they use. People often rely on a variety of payment sources, including:

• Personal funds, including savings, a pension or other retirement fund, income from investments, or proceeds from the sale of a home.
• Federal and state government programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Visit USA.gov for more information about government programs for health care and financial assistance.
• Private financing, including long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, certain life insurance policies, annuities, and trusts.

Read more about the options for paying for long-term care.

When it’s time to leave home

Most people prefer to stay in their own home for as long as possible. But there may come a time when it’s no longer safe or comfortable to live alone.

The decision about whether and when an older adult should move from their home is often difficult and emotional. Everyone will have their own reasons for wanting (or not wanting) to take such a step. One person may decide a move is right because they can’t or don’t want to manage the home any longer. For another person, the need for regular, hands-on care motivates a change.

Learn as much as you can about the housing options available as you grow older. Talk with your family about the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/aging-place-growing-older-home.

Which vaccines do older adults need?

As you get older, a health care provider may recommend vaccinations, also known as shots or immunizations, to help prevent certain illnesses.

Talk with a doctor or pharmacist about which of the following vaccines you need. Make sure to protect yourself as much as possible by keeping your vaccinations up to date.

COVID-19 vaccines

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that causes symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Older adults are more likely than younger people to get very sick from COVID-19. The disease can lead to serious illness and death.

Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of getting this disease. The vaccine will also help keep you from getting seriously ill or having to go to the hospital if you do get COVID-19. We are still learning how effective COVID-19 vaccines are against new variants of the virus. Read more about COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Read more about COVID-19 vaccines from the CDC and find out the current vaccine recommendations for older adults.

Contact your local health department or visit Vaccines.gov to find out where you can get vaccinated.

Flu vaccine for older adults

Flu — short for influenza — is a virus that can cause fever, chills, sore throat, stuffy nose, headache, and muscle aches. Flu is very serious when it gets in your lungs. Older adults are at a higher risk for developing serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia.

The flu is easy to pass from person to person. The virus also changes over time, which means you can get it again. To ensure flu vaccines remain effective, the vaccine is updated every year.

Everyone age 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine, but the protection from a flu vaccine can lessen with time, especially in older adults. Still, you are less likely to become seriously ill or hospitalized with the flu if you get the vaccine. A flu vaccine is especially important if you have a chronic health condition such as heart disease or diabetes.

Ideally, you should get your vaccine by the end of October each year so you are protected when the flu season starts. It takes at least two weeks for the vaccine to be effective. However, if you have not received your flu vaccine by the end of October, it’s not too late — flu season typically peaks in December or January. As long as the flu virus is spreading, getting vaccinated will help protect you.

There are flu vaccines designed specifically for older adults. The CDC recommends that people age 65 and older receive a higher-dose flu vaccine or an adjuvanted flu vaccine (one with an additional ingredient called an adjuvant that helps create a stronger immune response). These vaccines are potentially more effective than the standard flu vaccine for people in this age group. Talk with a health care provider or pharmacist about which vaccine is best for you.

Medicare will pay for the flu vaccine, and so will private health insurance plans. You can get a flu vaccine at a doctor’s office or local health department, as well as at many grocery stores, drug stores, and pharmacies. Flu shots may also be available at other community locations, such as schools, religious centers, and workplaces. The ingredients of a specific vaccine are the same wherever you receive it.

RSV vaccine for older adults

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, older adults have a higher risk of developing severe symptoms if they are infected with RSV. The illness can be particularly dangerous for people who have chronic diseases or a weakened immune system. Older adults who get very sick from an RSV infection may need to be hospitalized, and the illness can even be life-threatening.

RSV vaccines are available to protect older adults from the serious health problems that can occur with RSV infection. The CDC recommends that adults 60 years and older talk with their health care provider about whether they should receive the RSV vaccine. Like the flu, RSV infections are most common in the fall and winter months, so consider getting vaccinated before RSV season starts. However, you can benefit from the RSV vaccine at any time of year.

You can get the RSV vaccine at a doctor’s office, your local health department, and many pharmacies. Medicare Part D and private health insurance plans may pay some or all of the cost. Check with Medicare or your health plan for details about coverage.

Vaccines to help prevent pneumonia

Pneumococcal disease is a serious infection that spreads from person to person by air. It often causes pneumonia in the lungs and it can affect other parts of the body. Older adults are at higher risk than younger people of getting very sick or dying from pneumococcal disease.

The CDC recommends that all adults age 50 and older get pneumococcal vaccination. This vaccine helps protect you from getting a serious infection, including pneumonia. There are multiple forms of the pneumococcal vaccine: Talk to a health care provider to find out which is best for you. You can also visit the CDC’s Pneumococcal Vaccination webpage to learn more about the types of vaccines that are available.

Medicare will pay for the pneumococcal vaccine, as will many private insurance plans. You can get the vaccine at a doctor’s office, your local health department, and many pharmacies. Pneumococcal vaccines may also be available at other community locations, such as schools, religious centers, and workplaces.

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccines

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis are diseases caused by bacteria that can lead to serious illness and death.

• Tetanus (sometimes called lockjaw) is caused by bacteria found in soil, dust, and manure. It can enter the body through a deep cut or burn.
• Diphtheria is a serious illness that can affect the tonsils, throat, nose, or skin. It can spread from person to person.
• Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, causes uncontrollable, violent coughing fits that make it hard to breathe. It can spread from person to person.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Most people get vaccinated as children, but you also need booster shots as you get older to stay protected against these diseases. The CDC recommends that adults get a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) or Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years. Ask a health care provider when you need your booster shot.

You can get the Tdap or Td vaccine at a doctor’s office, your local health department, and many pharmacies. Medicare Part D and private health insurance plans may pay some or all of the cost. Check with Medicare or your health plan for details about coverage.

Shingles vaccine for older adults

Shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. If you had chickenpox, the virus is still in your body. As you get older, the virus could become active again and cause shingles.

Shingles affects the nerves. Common symptoms include burning, shooting pain, tingling, and/or itching, as well as a rash with fluid-filled blisters. Even when the rash disappears, the pain can remain. This is called post-herpetic neuralgia, or PHN.

The shingles vaccine is safe, and it may keep you from getting shingles and PHN. Healthy adults age 50 and older should get vaccinated with the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, which is given in two doses. (Zostavax, an earlier shingles vaccine, is no longer available in the United States.)

You should get a shingles vaccine even if you’ve already had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, or if you don’t remember whether you had chickenpox. You should also get the shingles vaccine if you’ve already had shingles or received Zostavax. However, you should not get a vaccine if you currently have shingles, are sick or have a fever, have a weakened immune system, or have had an allergic reaction to Shingrix. Check with a health care provider if you are not sure what to do.

You can get the shingles vaccine at a doctor’s office, your local health department, and many pharmacies. Medicare Part D and private health insurance plans may pay some or all of the cost. Check with Medicare or your health plan for details about coverage.

Travel vaccines

Check with a doctor, a pharmacist, or your local health department about vaccines you need if you’re planning to travel to other countries. The vaccines that are required and recommended are based on your destination, planned activities, and medical history. Sometimes multiple vaccines or doses are needed. It’s best to get them at least four to six weeks before you travel to allow time to build up immunity and get the best protection, particularly from those that may require multiple doses.

Contact Medicare or your private health insurance plan to find out whether they cover the travel vaccines you need. You may be able to get some travel vaccines from a local health care provider. Others are available from health departments and travel medicine clinics. For more information, visit the CDC Traveler’s Health website or call its information line at 800-232-4636.

Vaccine safety and side effects

Vaccines are very safe, and they can help keep you from getting serious or life-threatening diseases. The most common side effects for all these vaccines are mild and may include pain, swelling, or redness where the vaccine was given.

Before getting any vaccine, talk with a doctor or pharmacist about your health history, including past illnesses and treatments, as well as any allergies. A health care provider can address any concerns you have.

It’s a good idea to keep your own vaccination record, listing the types and dates of your shots, along with any side effects or problems.

Learn more about vaccine safety and side effects.

What Is Telehealth?

Telehealth is a service that uses video calling and other technologies to help you see your doctor or other health care provider from home instead of at a medical facility. Telehealth may be particularly helpful for older adults with limited mobility and for those living in rural areas, as they will have the opportunity to see and talk with their doctor from their home. For older adults, talking with their doctor online, through a phone, tablet, or other electronic device, can often be easier, faster, and less expensive than making a trip to an office.

Telehealth can also help support family caregivers who are taking care of their loved ones either close by or from afar. If a caregiver needs to ask the doctor a question, they can do so through an online health portal rather than waiting for and traveling to an in-person appointment.

How to Prepare for a Telehealth Appointment: Tips for Older Adults

The transition from in-person to online appointments can be difficult for some people, especially those who are not familiar with the technology. By taking a few minutes before your appointment to prepare, you can set yourself up for a more successful visit.

• Add online appointments to your calendar. Once your appointment is confirmed, add it to your calendar so you don’t forget.
• Try to use the best camera you can find. This may be attached to your phone, laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. A clear picture can help your doctor understand and address your concerns more easily and effectively.
• Test the camera in advance. Practice in advance with a family member or a friend to make sure you understand how to use your camera when you have your online visit with your doctor.
• Test the sound and video on your device. Most devices have built-in microphones and speakers, but you may have to turn them on or enable the telehealth software or website to access them. Video calling a friend before your appointment can help ensure that everything is working properly. Using headphones or earbuds may make it easier for you to hear your doctor and for your doctor to hear you, but it’s good to test these out first to see what works best.
• Use the best internet connection possible. If you are not using Wi-Fi, try getting the best signal by using a wired connection to your router or an Ethernet cable. If you are using Wi-Fi, being physically close to the internet router and minimizing devices connected to it can help improve your connection.
• Charge your device. If you are using a wireless device, like a phone, laptop, or tablet, check to make sure your battery is charged enough to last through your appointment. Try charging it the night before your appointment.
• Find a quiet space and adjust lighting. Limit distractions and clutter in your space. Try finding a place with good lighting so your doctor can see you properly.
• Position yourself. Place your device on a sturdy surface so you can move around if you need to. Try positioning your device so your head and shoulders are in the camera frame.
• Prepare a list of questions/concerns. Being prepared for your appointment will help make it easier for you and your doctor to cover everything you need to talk about.

Are Telehealth Appointments Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance providers, including Medicaid and some private insurers, are beginning to cover telehealth services. However, telehealth coverage varies widely from state to state with differences in how telehealth is defined and paid for. Because insurance coverage policies differ, it’s important to check with insurance providers or your health care provider’s billing department directly for the latest information about coverage for telehealth services.

Will Medicare Cover My Telehealth Appointment?

If you are enrolled in Medicare Part B, certain telehealth services, like doctor’s visits, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services may be covered.

The specific amount you will owe may depend on several factors, including:

• Other insurance you may have
• How much your doctor charges
• The type of facility
• Where you get your test, item, or service

Medicare also covers virtual check-ins and E-visits.

Medicare Advantage Plans are a type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits. These plans may offer more telehealth benefits than Original Medicare.

Medicare plans are constantly changing and updating. Check with your provider to see what telehealth benefits are offered for your plan.

Learn more about Medicare and telehealth services.

Online Clinical Research Assessments and Trials

Are you involved in a clinical trial or considering participating in research? Typically, clinical trials require in-person visits. However, some clinical trials are conducting initial surveys or tests for research online, while some studies and trials are being conducted entirely online. Conducting clinical studies online can help encourage people to participate. Online clinical trials help eliminate travel time to trial sites and allow patients to participate from the comfort of their own home. This is increasingly beneficial for older adults who have limited mobility.

Find a clinical trial that works for you using the Clinical Trials Finder or ClinicalTrials.gov.

Healthy eating can help you lose or maintain weight, feel better overall, and possibly decrease your chances of getting certain diseases. Making smart food choices is important at any age. But eating healthy can be difficult even if you know which foods you should buy and prepare. Your budget, physical issues, mood changes, and dietary restrictions can be roadblocks to eating food that’s best for you. Here are suggestions for dealing with common problems that can make it harder for older adults to follow through on smart food choices.

Trying to eat healthy on a budget?

Even when you know which healthy foods to choose, people living on fixed or limited incomes may not be able to buy what’s ideal. Start by deciding how much you can afford to spend on food.

There are a number of resources that can help you plan a food budget. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture supports Iowa State University’s Spend Smart-Eat Smart program. This website also features more than 100 inexpensive recipes, with nutrition information and cost per serving.

Once you have decided on your budget, look for grocery store advertising in the newspaper or online to see what is on sale. Try to plan some meals around featured items and consider purchasing extra nonperishables such as canned goods when they’re on sale. Use coupons when possible and ask your grocery store staff if they have a senior discount or loyalty rewards program. Consider buying store-brand products, which are often the same as more expensive brand-name ones. Focus on buying healthy and inexpensive produce. Many nutritious fruits and vegetables — such as bananas, apples, oranges, lettuce, green peppers, and carrots — may be reasonably priced.

Tired of cooking or eating alone?

Maybe you are tired of planning and cooking dinners every night. Have you considered potluck meals? If everyone brings one part of the meal, cooking is a lot easier, and there might be leftovers to share. Or try cooking with a friend to make a meal you can enjoy together. Food delivery services are yet another option. You could also look into having some meals at a nearby senior center, community center, or religious facility. Not only will you enjoy a free or low-cost meal, but you will also have some company while you eat. Visit the Eldercare Locator to search for centers in your area.

Problems chewing or swallowing food?

Do you avoid some foods because they are hard to chew? People who have problems with their teeth or dentures often avoid eating meat, fruits, or vegetables and might miss out on important nutrients. If you are having trouble chewing, see your dentist to check for problems. If you wear dentures, the dentist can check the fit.

If food seems to get stuck in your throat or is hard to swallow, it might be that you don’t have enough saliva in your mouth. Or, there may be other reasons, including problems with the muscles or nerves in your throat, problems with your esophagus, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Talk to your doctor about what might be causing your swallowing issues.

Physical problems making it hard to eat?

Sometimes illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or arthritis can make it harder to cook or feed yourself. Your doctor might recommend an occupational therapist. The therapist might make a custom splint for your hand, give you special exercises to strengthen your muscles, or suggest rearranging things in your kitchen. Special utensils and plates might make mealtimes easier or help with food preparation.

Food tastes different?

Are foods not as tasty as you remember? It might not be the cook’s fault! Maybe your sense of taste, smell, or both has changed. Growing older, having dental problems, and medication side effects can cause your senses to change. Taste and smell are important for a healthy appetite and eating. Try adding fresh herbs, spices, or lemon juice to your plate.

Smoking and drinking alcohol can also affect your sense of taste. If you smoke, quitting may not only improve your sense of taste and smell, but also your health in many other ways. If you drink alcohol, consider stopping or cutting back.

Some medicines can change how food tastes, make your mouth dry, or reduce your appetite. In turn, some foods can change how certain medicines work. You might have heard that grapefruit juice is a common culprit when used with any of several drugs. Chocolate, licorice, and alcohol are some others. Whenever your doctor prescribes a new drug for you, be sure to ask about any food-drug interactions.

Just not hungry?

Changes to your body as you age can cause some people to feel full sooner than they did when they were younger. Lack of appetite can also be a side effect of a medicine you are taking. Talk with your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing. Your doctor may be able to suggest a different drug.

Try to be more active. In addition to all the other benefits of exercise and physical activity, these may make you hungrier. If you aren’t hungry because food just isn’t appealing, there are ways to make it more interesting. Make sure your foods are seasoned well, but not by adding extra salt. Try using lemon juice, vinegar, or herbs to boost the flavor.

Vary the shape, color, and texture of foods you eat. When you go shopping, look for a new vegetable, fruit, or seafood you haven’t tried before or one you haven’t eaten in a while. Some grocery stores have recipe cards near items, or you can ask the staff for suggestions about preparing the new food or find recipes online. Foods that are overcooked tend to have less flavor. Try cooking or steaming your vegetables for a shorter time and see if that gives them a crunch that will help spark your interest.

Food allergies or dietary restrictions?

Some older adults have allergies to certain foods, such as wheat, nuts, or dairy. Others may have dietary restrictions for religious, ethical, or personal reasons. Whatever your dietary needs are, it is still possible to choose healthy foods.

Avoiding dairy? Talk to your health care provider about how to get enough calcium and vitamin D. Even lactose-intolerant people might be able to have small amounts of milk when taken with food. There are also nondairy food sources of calcium, lactose-free milk and milk products, calcium- and vitamin D-fortified foods, and supplements.

Gluten sensitivity or allergy? Check out these resources that explain the different types of gluten sensitivities and allergies and learn how to make smart food choices for each type.

Vegetarian or vegan? Check out these resources for incorporating plant-based protein into your diet.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-eating-nutrition-and-diet/overcoming-roadblocks-healthy-eating.

During an emergency or at the end of life, you may face questions about their medical treatment and not be able answer them. You may assume your loved ones know what you would want, but that’s not always true. In one study, people guessed nearly one out of three end-of-life decisions for their loved one incorrectly.

Research shows that you are more likely to get the care you want if you have conversations about your future medical treatment and put a plan in place. It may also help your loved ones grieve more easily and feel less burden, guilt, and depression.

What is advance care planning?

Advance care planning involves discussing and preparing for future decisions about your medical care if you become seriously ill or unable to communicate your wishes. Having meaningful conversations with your loved ones is the most important part of advance care planning. Many people also choose to put their preferences in writing by completing legal documents called advance directives.

What are advance directives?

Advance directives are legal documents that provide instructions for medical care and only go into effect if you cannot communicate your own wishes.

The two most common advance directives for health care are the living will and the durable power of attorney for health care.

• Living will: A living will is a legal document that tells doctors how you want to be treated if you cannot make your own decisions about emergency treatment. In a living will, you can say which common medical treatments or care you would want, which ones you would want to avoid, and under which conditions each of your choices applies. Learn more about preparing a living will.
• Durable power of attorney for health care: A durable power of attorney for health care is a legal document that names your health care proxy, a person who can make health care decisions for you if you are unable to communicate these yourself. Your proxy, also known as a representative, surrogate, or agent, should be familiar with your values and wishes. A proxy can be chosen in addition to or instead of a living will. Having a health care proxy helps you plan for situations that cannot be foreseen, such as a serious car accident or stroke. Learn more about choosing a health care proxy.

Think of your advance directives as living documents that you review at least once each year and update if a major life event occurs such as retirement, moving out of state, or a significant change in your health.

Who needs an advance care plan?

Advance care planning is not just for people who are very old or ill. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you unable to communicate your own health care decisions. Planning now for your future health care can help ensure you get the medical care you want and that someone you trust will be there to make decisions for you.

What happens if you do not have an advance directive?

If you do not have an advance directive and you are unable to make decisions on your own, the state laws where you live will determine who may make medical decisions on your behalf. This is typically your spouse, your parents if they are available, or your children if they are adults. If you are unmarried and have not named your partner as your proxy, it’s possible they could be excluded from decision-making. If you have no family members, some states allow a close friend who is familiar with your values to help. Or they may assign a physician to represent your best interests. To find out the laws in your state, contact your state legal aid office or state bar association.

Will an advance directive guarantee your wishes are followed?

An advance directive is legally recognized but not legally binding. This means that your health care provider and proxy will do their best to respect your advance directives, but there may be circumstances in which they cannot follow your wishes exactly. For example, you may be in a complex medical situation where it is unclear what you would want. This is another key reason why having conversations about your preferences is so important. Talking with your loved ones ahead of time may help them better navigate unanticipated issues.

There is the possibility that a health care provider refuses to follow your advance directives. This might happen if the decision goes against:

• The health care provider’s conscience
• The health care institution’s policy
• Accepted health care standards

In these situations, the health care provider must inform your health care proxy immediately and consider transferring your care to another provider.

Other advance care planning forms and orders

You might want to prepare documents to express your wishes about a single medical issue or something else not already covered in your advance directives, such as an emergency. For these types of situations, you can talk with a doctor about establishing the following orders:

• Do not resuscitate (DNR) order: A DNR becomes part of your medical chart to inform medical staff in a hospital or nursing facility that you do not want CPR or other life-support measures to be attempted if your heartbeat and breathing stop. Sometimes this document is referred to as a do not attempt resuscitation (DNR) order or an allow natural death (AND) order. Even though a living will might state that CPR is not wanted, it is helpful to have a DNR order as part of your medical file if you go to a hospital. Posting a DNR next to your hospital bed might avoid confusion in an emergency. Without a DNR order, medical staff will attempt every effort to restore your breathing and the normal rhythm of your heart.
• Do not intubate (DNI) order: A similar document, a DNI informs medical staff in a hospital or nursing facility that you do not want to be on a ventilator.
• Do not hospitalize (DNH) order: A DNH indicates to long-term care providers, such as nursing home staff, that you prefer not to be sent to a hospital for treatment at the end of life.
• Out-of-hospital DNR order: An out-of-hospital DNR alerts emergency medical personnel to your wishes regarding measures to restore your heartbeat or breathing if you are not in a hospital.
• Physician orders for life-sustaining treatment (POLST) and medical orders for life-sustaining treatment (MOLST) forms: These forms provide guidance about your medical care that health care professionals can act on immediately in an emergency. They serve as a medical order in addition to your advance directive. Typically, you create a POLST or MOLST when you are near the end of life or critically ill and understand the specific decisions that might need to be made on your behalf. These forms may also be called portable medical orders or physician orders for scope of treatment (POST). Check with your state department of health to find out if these forms are available where you live.

You may also want to document your wishes about organ and tissue donation and brain donation. As well, learning about care options such as palliative care and hospice care can help you plan ahead.

How can you get started with advance care planning?

To get started with advance care planning, consider the following steps:

• Reflect on your values and wishes. This can help you think through what matters most at the end of life and guide your decisions about future care and medical treatment.
• Talk with your doctor about advance directives. Advance care planning is covered by Medicare as part of your annual wellness visit. If you have private health insurance, check with your insurance provider. Talking to a health care provider can help you learn about your current health and the kinds of decisions that are likely to come up. For example, you might ask about the decisions you may face if your high blood pressure leads to a stroke.
• Choose someone you trust to make medical decisions for you. Whether it’s a family member, a loved one, or your lawyer, it’s important to choose someone you trust as your health care proxy. Once you’ve decided, discuss your values and preferences with them. If you’re not ready to discuss specific treatments or care decisions yet, try talking about your general preferences. You can also try other ways to share your wishes, such as writing a letter or watching a video on the topic together.
• Complete your advance directive forms. To make your care and treatment decisions official, you can complete a living will. Similarly, once you decide on your health care proxy, you can make it official by completing a durable power of attorney for health care.
• Share your forms with your health care proxy, doctors, and loved ones. After you’ve completed your advance directives, make copies and store them in a safe place. Give copies to your health care proxy, health care providers, and lawyer. Some states have registries that can store your advance directive for quick access by health care providers and your proxy.
• Keep the conversation going. Continue to talk about your wishes and update your forms at least once each year or after major life changes. If you update your forms, file and keep your previous versions. Note the date the older copy was replaced by a new one. If you use a registry, make sure the latest version is on record.

Everyone approaches the process differently. Remember to be flexible and take it one step at a time. Start small. For example, try simply talking with your loved ones about what you appreciate and enjoy most about life. Your values, treatment preferences, and even the people you involve in your plan may change over time. The most important part is to start the conversation.

How to find advance directive forms

You can establish your advance directives for little or no cost. Many states have their own forms that you can access and complete for free. Here are some ways you might find free advance directive forms in your state:

• Contact your State Attorney General’s Office.
• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging. You can find your area agency phone number by visiting the Eldercare Locator or by calling 800-677-1116.
• Download your state’s form online from one of these national organizations: AARP, American Bar Association, or National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.
• If you are a veteran, contact your local Veteran’s Affairs (VA) office. The VA offers an advance directive specifically for veterans.

Some people spend a lot of time in more than one state. If that’s your situation, consider preparing advance directives using the form for each state, and keep a copy in each place, too.

There are also organizations that enable you to create, download, and print your forms online, but they may charge fees. Before you pay, remember there are several ways to get your forms for free. Some free online resources include:

• PREPARE for Your Care: An interactive online program that was funded in part by NIA. It is available in English and Spanish.
• The Conversation Project: A series of online conversation guides and advance care documents available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. The Conversation Project is a public engagement initiative led by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.

If you use forms from a website, check to make sure they are legally recognized in your state. You should also make sure the website is secure and will protect your personal information. Read the website’s privacy policy and check that the website link begins with “https” (make sure it has an “s”) and that it has a small lock icon next to its web address.

Some people also choose to carry a card in their wallet indicating they have an advance directive and where it is kept. Below is an example from the American Hospital Association (PDF, 40KB).

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/advance-care-planning-advance-directives-health-care.

Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging. You may not know what to expect or what to do next. The steps below can help you get started.

Learn about Alzheimer’s disease

Being informed will help you know what to expect as the disease progresses. Here are some resources:

• Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
  800-438-4380
• Alzheimers.gov
• Alzheimer’s Association
  800-272-3900
• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
  866-232-8484

Local hospitals and community centers may have educational programs about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Get regular medical care

• Talk with your doctor about what to expect, what treatment options may be available, and what decisions you need to make.
• Attend appointments with your primary care doctor and any recommended specialists.
• Ask your doctor for a referral to a memory disorders clinic.

Find local services and support

• Find local services by visiting the Eldercare Locator online or calling 800-677-1116.
• Find local organizations and support groups through the Alzheimer’s Association or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
• Contact an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center near you.

Make legal, financial, and long-term care plans

• Get information to help you plan for the future.
• Prepare or update your will, living will, health care power of attorney, and financial power of attorney. If you want to consult a lawyer, contact your local bar association or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
• Learn about how to manage your finances with Alzheimer’s.
• Learn about long-term care you may need and how to pay for it.
• Explore getting help to pay for medicines, housing, transportation, and more.

If you are working

• Consult your employer’s human resources department or employee assistance program about family leave, disability benefits, and other employee benefits.
• If you work, consider your options. Learn more about Alzheimer’s and employment.
• If you have problems performing your job, consider reducing your hours or switching to a less demanding position.
• People with Alzheimer’s may be eligible for disability income through private disability insurance, Social Security benefits, or veterans’ benefits. Social Security’s Compassionate Allowances program may help with speeding up a disability claim. Call 800-772-1213 for more information.

If you live alone

• Find someone who can visit you regularly and be an emergency contact.
• People with Alzheimer’s are at a greater risk of falling and should consider using an emergency response system. These systems use a special pendant or bracelet that lets you summon help if you fall and can’t reach the phone.
• Contact an occupational therapist who can teach you ways to stay independent for as long as possible. Ask your doctor for more information.
• Get tips about self-care, safety, staying connected, and more.

Explore ways to make tasks easier

• Use simple memory aids such as notes for reminders, a pillbox to organize medications, and a calendar to record appointments.
• Ask family members or friends, or find local services, to help with routine tasks, such as cooking, paying bills, transportation, or shopping.
• Try using technology to help with medication management, safety (e.g., emergency response, door alarms), and other care.

Be safer at home

• Learn more about home safety and get tips.
• Ask your doctor to order a home safety evaluation and recommend a home health care agency to conduct it. Medicare may cover the cost.
• Consider enrolling in the MedicAlert + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return program. Note that this service is not affiliated with NIA, and there may be a charge for this service.

Stay safe on the road

• Talk with your doctor if you become confused, get lost, take a long time to run a simple errand and can’t explain why, or if others worry about your driving.
• Get a driving evaluation. Ask your doctor for names of driving evaluators, contact your state’s department of motor vehicles, or visit the American Occupational Therapy Association.
• Learn more about driving safety for people with Alzheimer’s.

Make healthy lifestyle choices

• Be active. Exercise can help you feel better, and it keeps your muscles, joints, and heart in good shape.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Stay connected with family and friends.
• Participate in meaningful activities, such as hobbies or volunteering, to keep your mind active and engaged.

Consider participating in Alzheimer’s research

• Ask your doctor about clinical trials or studies you might be eligible to participate in.
• Contact an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center about potential research opportunities.
• Use the Alzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder to search for a clinical trial or study near you.

You can learn more about clinical trials at NIA’s Clinical Trials Information page. To read stories about the impact of clinical trials, or to find a clinical trial near you, visit the NIH Clinical Research Trials and You page.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-treatment/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis.

Biomarkers are measurable indicators of what’s happening in the body. These can be found in blood, other body fluids, organs, and tissues. Some can even be measured digitally. Biomarkers can help doctors and researchers track healthy processes, diagnose diseases and other health conditions, monitor responses to medication, and identify health risks in a person. For example, an increased level of cholesterol in the blood is a biomarker for heart attack risk.

Before the early 2000s, the only sure way to know whether a person had Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia was after death through autopsy. But thanks to advances in research, tests are now available to help doctors and researchers see biomarkers associated with dementia in a living person.

The different types of biomarkers for dementia detection and diagnosis are outlined below. When combined with other tests, these biomarkers can help doctors determine whether a person might have or be at risk of developing Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. However, no single test can diagnose these conditions. Biomarkers are only part of a complete assessment. Read more about diagnosing dementia.

In some cases, these biomarker tests are only available through a specialty clinic or medical research facility. Physicians with expertise in this area include neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and geriatricians. Medicare and other health insurance plans may cover only certain, limited types of biomarker tests for dementia symptoms. Check with Medicare or your insurance plan to find out what’s covered.

Biomarkers are also an important part of dementia research. They help researchers detect early brain changes, better understand how risk factors are involved, identify participants who meet particular requirements for clinical trials and studies, and track participants’ responses to a test drug or other intervention, such as physical exercise. The following information notes how some of these biomarkers are used for research purposes, in addition to diagnosis.

Types of biomarkers and tests

Brain imaging

Several types of brain scans enable doctors and scientists to see different factors that may help diagnose Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Doctors also use brain scans to find evidence of other sources of damage, such as tumors or stroke, that may aid in diagnosis. Brain scans used to help diagnose dementia include CT, MRI, and PET scans.

Computerized tomography (CT)

A CT scan is a type of X-ray that uses radiation to produce images of the brain or other parts of the body. A head CT can show shrinkage of brain regions that may occur in dementia, as well as signs of other possible sources of disease, such as an infection or blood clot. To help determine if a person has dementia, a doctor might compare the size of certain brain regions to previous scans or to what would be expected for a person of the same age and size. Sometimes a CT scan is used when a person isn’t eligible for an MRI due to metal in their body, such as a pacemaker.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of body structures, including the size and shape of the brain and brain regions. Because MRI uses strong magnetic fields to obtain images, people with certain types of metal in their bodies, such as a pacemaker, surgical clips, or shrapnel, cannot undergo the procedure.

Similar to CT scans, MRIs can show whether areas of the brain have atrophied (shrunk). Repeat scans can show how a person’s brain changes over time. Evidence of shrinkage may support a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another neurodegenerative dementia but cannot indicate a specific diagnosis. MRI also provides a detailed picture of brain blood vessels. Before making a dementia diagnosis, doctors often view MRI results to rule out other causes of memory changes such as bleeding or a build-up of fluid in the brain.

In research, various types of MRI scans are used to study the structure and function of the brain in both healthy aging and in Alzheimer’s disease. MRIs can also be used to monitor the safety of novel drugs and examine how treatment may affect the brain over time.

Positron emission tomography (PET)

PET uses small amounts of a radioactive substance, called a tracer, to measure specific activity — such as energy use — or a specific molecule in different brain regions. PET scans take pictures of the brain, revealing regions of normal and abnormal chemical activity. There are several types of PET scans that can help doctors diagnose dementia.

• Amyloid PET scans measure abnormal deposits of a protein called beta-amyloid. Higher levels of beta-amyloid are consistent with the presence of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Medical specialists may use amyloid PET imaging to help diagnose Alzheimer’s. A positive amyloid scan may mean symptoms are due to Alzheimer’s or a person is experiencing the early stages of Alzheimer’s. But it’s possible for people to have amyloid plaques and never develop the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, so doctors will consider these findings along with the results of other tests. An amyloid scan that shows just a few or no amyloid plaques usually means that Alzheimer’s is not the cause of the symptoms. These types of scans are often used in research settings to identify those at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and to test potential treatments.
• Tau PET scans detect the abnormal accumulation of the tau protein. Tau forms tangles within nerve cells in Alzheimer’s disease and many other dementias. Tau PET scans may be used by doctors to monitor progression of Alzheimer’s, but they are not commonly used in standard medical practice. These scans are more often used in research settings to help identify people who are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s and test potential treatments.
• Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET scans measure energy use in the brain. Glucose, a type of sugar, is the primary source of energy for cells. Studies show that people with dementia often have abnormal patterns of decreased glucose use in specific areas of the brain. In clinical care, FDG PET scans may be used if a doctor strongly suspects frontotemporal dementia as opposed to Alzheimer’s.

Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers (CSF)

CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and insulation. CSF also supplies numerous nutrients and chemicals that help keep brain cells healthy. Proteins and other substances made by brain cells can be detected in CSF. Measuring changes in the levels of these substances can help diagnose neurological problems.

Doctors perform a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, to get CSF. The most widely used CSF biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease measure beta-amyloid 42 (the major component of amyloid plaques in the brain), tau, and phospho-tau (major components of tau tangles in the brain, which are another hallmark of Alzheimer’s).

In clinical practice, CSF biomarkers may be used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. In research, CSF biomarkers are valuable tools for early detection of a neurodegenerative disease and to assess the impact of experimental medications.

Blood tests

Proteins that originate in the brain may be measured with sensitive blood tests. Levels of these proteins may change because of Alzheimer’s, a stroke, or other brain disorders. These blood biomarkers have historically been less accurate than CSF biomarkers for identifying Alzheimer’s and related dementias. However, thanks to more research advances, improved methods to measure these brain-derived proteins are now available. For example, it is now possible for scientists and some doctors, dependent on state-specific availability reflecting U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines, to order a blood test to measure levels of beta-amyloid. Several other similar tests are in development. Still, the availability of these diagnostic tests is limited: They are more common in research settings where scientists use blood biomarkers to study early detection, prevention, and the effects of potential treatments.

Genetic testing

Genes are structures in a body’s cells that are passed down from a person’s birth parents. They carry information that determines a person’s traits and keep the body’s cells healthy. Mutations in genes can lead to diseases such as Alzheimer’s. A genetic test is a type of medical test that analyzes DNA from blood or saliva to determine a person’s genetic makeup. A number of genetic combinations may change the risk of developing a disease that causes dementia.

Genetic tests are not routinely used in clinical settings to diagnose or predict the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. However, a neurologist or other medical specialist may order a genetic test in certain situations, such as when a person has an early age of onset with a strong family history of Alzheimer’s or frontotemporal dementia. A genetic test is typically accompanied by genetic counseling for the person before the test and when results are received. Genetic counseling includes a discussion of the risks, benefits, and limitations of test results.

In research studies, genetic tests may be used, in addition to other assessments, to predict disease risk, help study early detection, explain disease progression, and study whether a person’s genetic makeup influences the effects of a treatment.

Read more about Alzheimer’s genetics and frontotemporal disorder genetics.

What is the future of biomarkers?

Advances in biomarkers during the past decade have led to exciting new findings. Researchers can now see Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain while people are alive, track the disease’s onset and progression, and test the effectiveness of promising drugs and other potential treatments.

Researchers are continuing to study and develop biomarkers to improve dementia detection, diagnosis, and treatment. These may one day be used more widely in doctors’ offices and other clinical settings. Learn more about biomarker advancements and biomarkers for dementia detection and research.

How you can help move biomarker research forward

The use of biomarkers is enabling scientists to make great strides in identifying potential new treatments and ways to prevent or delay dementia. These and similar advances have been possible only because of the thousands of volunteers who have participated in clinical trials and studies. Clinical trials need participants of all different ages, sexes, races, and ethnicities to ensure that study results apply to as many people as possible, and that treatments will be safe and effective for everyone who will use them. Major medical breakthroughs could not happen without the generosity of research participants who essentially become partners in these scientific discoveries.

Learn more about participating in clinical research.

To find clinical trials and studies on Alzheimer’s and related dementias, visit the Alzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder.

Over time, people with Alzheimer’s disease will become less able to manage things around the home. For example, they may forget to turn off the oven or faucet, or even how to use the phone in an emergency. People with Alzheimer’s also may not see, smell, touch, hear, or taste things as they used to.

Caregivers can do many things to make the person’s home a safer place. The tips on this page cover a wide range of safety concerns that may arise — some may not apply to your current circumstances. It is important, however, to keep thinking about home safety as the person’s behavior and abilities change.

Creating a safer home for a person with Alzheimer’s

Go through the house room by room to identify potential problems and safety issues. First, correct any immediate dangers, such as loose stair railings and poor lighting, and then work on other ways to ensure the person will be as safe as possible at home.

To prevent falls, mark the edges of steps with brightly colored tape so the person can see the steps as they go up or down stairs.

• Use brightly colored signs or simple pictures to label the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen.
• Limit the size and number of mirrors in your home and be specific about where you put them. Mirror images may confuse a person with Alzheimer’s.
• Make the walls a lighter color than the floor to create contrast. Avoid busy patterns.
• Install safety latches on storage cabinets and drawers designated for breakable or dangerous items.
• Set the water heater to 120°F to avoid scalding tap water.
• Label hot-water faucets red and cold-water faucets blue and/or write the words “hot” and “cold” near them.
• Pad any sharp corners on your furniture or replace or remove furniture with sharp corners.
• Place decals at eye level on sliding glass doors, picture windows, or furniture with large glass panels to identify the glass pane.
• Consider a “NO SOLICITING” sign for the front gate or door.
• Use smoke detectors and natural gas detectors and check their functioning and batteries frequently. People with Alzheimer’s may not be able to smell smoke or an unlit gas stove.
• Install nightlights and/or automatic light sensors.
• List emergency phone numbers (such as ambulance, poison control, and doctors) and the person’s address near all phones.

Store potentially dangerous items in a locked area or remove them from the home. These items can include:

• Prescription and over-the-counter medicines
• Alcohol
• Cleaning and household products, including paint thinner, matches, rubbing alcohol, and laundry detergent pods
• Poisonous plants
• Guns and other weapons, scissors, knives, power tools, and machinery
• Gasoline cans and other flammable items

Learn basic first aid in case the person gets sick or injured. Learn the Heimlich maneuver and CPR, and when to use each. Check with your local hospital or American Red Cross chapter about health and safety classes.

Kitchen safety

• Put signs near the oven, toaster, iron, and other things that get hot. The sign could say, “Stop!” or “Don’t Touch — Very Hot!” Be sure the sign is not so close that it could catch fire.
• Check foods in the refrigerator often. Throw out any that have gone bad.
• Add safety knobs and an automatic shut-off switch on the stove.
• Consider disconnecting the garbage disposal.
• Insert a drain trap in the kitchen sink to catch anything that may otherwise become lost or clog the plumbing.
• Remove artificial fruits and vegetables or food-shaped kitchen magnets, which may seem edible to the person with Alzheimer’s.

Bedroom safety

• Use a room monitoring device (like those used for infants) to alert you to any sounds indicating a fall or other need for help during the night.
• Remove portable space heaters. If you use portable fans, be sure that objects cannot be placed in the blades.
• Be cautious if using electric mattress pads, electric blankets, electric sheets, and heating pads, all of which can cause burns and fires. Keep controls out of reach of the person with Alzheimer’s.
• Install bed rails and other transfer or mobility aids.

Bathroom safety

• Remove small electrical appliances from the bathroom and cover electrical outlets.
• Put away or lock up items such as toothpaste, lotions, shampoos, soap, and perfume. They may look and smell like food to a person with Alzheimer’s.
• Install grab bars in the tub/shower. A grab bar in contrasting color to the wall is easier to see.
• Use a raised toilet seat with handrails or install grab bars beside the toilet.
• Place nonskid adhesive strips, decals, or mats in the tub and shower. If the bathroom is uncarpeted, consider placing these strips next to the tub, toilet, and sink.
• Use a foam rubber faucet cover in the tub, plastic shower stool, and hand-held shower head.

Find more information here: Alzheimer’s Caregiving: Bathing, Dressing, and Grooming.

For more information

NIA Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
800-438-4380
adear@nia.nih.gov
www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers
The NIA ADEAR Center offers information and free print publications about Alzheimer’s and related dementias for families, caregivers, and health professionals. ADEAR Center staff answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources.

Alzheimers.gov
www.alzheimers.gov
Explore the Alzheimers.gov website for information and resources on Alzheimer’s and related dementias from across the federal government.

Eldercare Locator
800-677-1116
eldercarelocator@USAging.org
https://eldercare.acl.gov

Alzheimer’s Association
800-272-3900 
866-403-3073 (TTY)
info@alz.org
www.alz.org 

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
866-232-8484
info@alzfdn.org
https://alzfdn.org

Family Caregiver Alliance
800-445-8106
info@caregiver.org
www.caregiver.org

National Capital Poison Center
800-222-1222
www.poison.org