One of the pleasures I get at my office is the opportunity to deliver Meals on Wheels to individuals who are homebound as a result of their physical or cognitive disabilities. I close the office down the first Monday of the month, every month and I and my staff of eight (8) deliver around one hundred twenty-five meals (125) meals to homebound seniors. I’ve realized over time that many of these folks are suffering from cognitive disabilities resulting from what appears to be dementia or memory loss type maladies. Their routine and familiar surroundings enable them to stay in their home. This is where they want to be and I believe that as long as they are safe and not neglected, and their basic needs are met that is where they should be. Part of our job as volunteers is to do a “well” check and report back to the agency any concerns we might observe.
Today I came across this notice announcing a new publication from the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center, “Handbook for Helping People Living Alone with Dementia Who Have No Known Support.” I was intrigued to learn that 28 to 34 percent of people with dementia live alone. It makes sense that, as reported, people living alone with dementia are at high risk for self-neglect, malnutrition, injury, medication errors, financial exploitation, social isolation and unattended wandering. This new Handbook is practically oriented—how can those who see another struggling with dementia really help them. The Handbook is meant to be utilized by concerned friends and acquaintances as well as medical, legal, and social service professionals. Well worth the review. Perhaps you know someone who is still trying to make their way at home and this might help with the conversation.
You can download the handbook from this website: https://nadrc.acl.gov/node/157.
-- Nancy C. Nawrocki