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[From
the Just for You booklet by the Alzheimer Society
of Canada. To get a copy, contact your local
Alzheimer Society.]
What
If I Live On My Own?
Many
people with Alzheimer's disease continue to live successfully
on their own for some time. Here are some ideas to help
you:
- Speak
to your doctor about assistance with things like housekeeping,
meal preparation or transportation.
- Talk
to your bank manager about "bank at home" services.
Arrange for direct deposit of cheques.
- Sort
out closets and dresser drawers to make it easy to
choose what to wear. Have a family member help you
if necessary.
- Leave
a set of house keys with a trusting neighbour.
- Use
electrical appliances that shut off on their own.
- Install
a smoke detector and check the batteries regularly.
- Leave
written reminders to yourself like "turn off the
stove" or "unplug the iron." Place them
where you will see them.
- Label
cupboards with words or pictures that describe what
is inside, for example, dishes, knives and forks.
- Write
telephone numbers in large print and post by the phone.
Include people to contact in an emergency.
- Write
your address down and post by the phone. Keep a map
showing where your home is.
- Accept
help when it is offered.
- Ask
for help when you need it.
- Take
your time.
- If
something is too difficult, take a break.
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