My father who is on the cusp of moderate-late stage Alzheimer's has been wandering into other residents' bedrooms, often startling or scaring them in the middle of the night. The staff have put STOP signs on the doors of residents, and it worked for a bit, but it doesn't deter him now. He is quite determined and difficult to distract or re-direct.
I've seen black duct tape/mats at the doorways at Long-Term Care homes, as well as thick yellow banners. I will offer this as a suggestion to the home.
Are there any other solutions to this common behaviour?
I believe his behaviour is due to the isolation of Covid-19 protocols. All activities are cancelled, meals are delivered to rooms, and he is a prisoner of his room. My father used to be very active and I believe the boredom and frustration is the reason for his agitation and wandering.
My greatest fear is that he will be politely asked to leave, especially if his behaviour worsens or if there is physical confrontation with others. Any advice would be appreciated; thank you in advance!
Is this actually assisted living? Or memory care? Sounds like he is in need of a higher level of care where there is a smaller population and more oversight. Have you tried speaking with the doctor about this behavior? There are med that may help with that.
what is the facility telling you? He really cannot continue this behavior. If the facility has a memory care wing, that may be a better idea.
The facility is asking me to hire a private caregiver for the nightshift (11pm-7am), however I already have a private caregiver going during daytime, 5 days a week.
He is on a light dosage of anxiety meds, and I'm planning to speak with his Geriatrician about this. A behavioural supports therapist has been consulted, however her suggestions were nothing new. I will try some other creative ways (perhaps distract him with another activity at night), but will resort to meds if all else fails. I need to work and cannot be there every night and sustain my life at once.