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Try to keep these five “F’s” in mind when thinking through potential dangers in early stage dementia care:

Fires

• Kitchen
• Space heaters
• Smoking

Falls

• Bathroom
• Stairs
• Poor balance
• Cluttered environment

Fights

• Avoid conflict
• Use communication strategies
• Blame the disease, not the person

Financial Problems

• Use a dummy checkbook
• Redirect mail to responsible party
• Provide “play money” to alleviate worry

Fraud

• Block calls from solicitors
• Supervise check-writing
• Do “charity-giving” together
• Alert bank to cognitive decline and risk of fraud and financial abuse
• Background check EVERY caregiver or outsider who comes into home

Got a specific question?  Email me at DQ@thedementiaqueen.com.  Let’s discuss!