It’s normal to be worried about your loved one’s safety, especially if they have dementia. Seniors living with memory loss can sometimes find themselves in a place they don’t recognize, even if they’ve been there before, and panic. Those overwhelming emotions can cause them to unintentionally put themselves at greater risks, like crossing the street before the walk sign is on or forgetting where the stairs are in their own home, resulting in falls and injuries.

Being a caregiver is never easy, but it can be especially challenging when someone you love has a condition that progresses over time. In the early stages, you may have only needed to help with chores like paying bills and transporting to and from doctor’s appointments. But as the disease progresses, stress can grow and lead to feelings of burnout. It’s hard to be a good caregiver if you don’t have time to care for yourself, too.

Is your family member neglecting personal hygiene like bathing, changing clothes, brushing their teeth, taking their medication or combing their hair? Sometimes people living with Alzheimer's or dementia know they must do these activities but forget how to do them or think they have already taken care of their hygiene. They may also also feel embarrassed to ask for help.

Have you noticed any physical changes in your loved one that they can't explain? For example, maybe your mom or dad has always been healthy, but now they're losing weight and looking a little frail. Sometimes a change like this means they are struggling to take care of themselves.

Sometimes seniors living with dementia lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, or they don’t want to socialize with friends anymore because it’s more difficult than it used to be. If they feel overwhelmed or recognize that they are struggling with memory loss, they may choose to withdraw from friends and family.