My mom knows how to push her button and walk out the front door if there's a fire . But how do I know she understands that and she verbalizes back to me ... She has dementia and we have been over it but I'm not sure what to do to be sure she can verbalizes this to a dr ? I want to be sure she's safe for the few hours a day she's alone ...,any help would be appreciated
Changing pampers 3 times a day, over and over - is a set routine. Yet, dad has finally reached the point that he can no longer turn or lift or sit up automatically. He's forgotten the routine. Now I have to say, "Up, lift butt, turn - no not to me - turn away from me, okay, turn to your back..." It's true that they can change and forget so quickly what used to be normal routine.
If you're worried - then take it seriously. Listen to your gut feelings. What I'm worried about is - If there's a fire, her main concern will be getting the cats out. And if the cats run into the closet and under the bed, she's going to be in there with them, trying to catch them. The cats will be in terror and refusing to come out, your mom will spend valuable time trying to get them out - until it's too late. Just be careful. And go with your guts.
You have to work and 12 hour shifts are normal these days for nurses so be comforted in that you are doing the best you know how.
If you can afford a smart phone you could install a camera so you could check on Mom from time to time
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