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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How do you know when it is time that your loved one should no longer live alone?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Thornton, AR
6 days ago
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myALZteam

Knowing when it's time for a loved one with Alzheimer's to stop living alone is one of the hardest decisions a family can face. There's no single moment that makes it obvious, but there are signs to watch for.

Here are some key indicators that living alone may no longer be safe:

- Frequent confusion or disorientation Show Full Answer

Knowing when it's time for a loved one with Alzheimer's to stop living alone is one of the hardest decisions a family can face. There's no single moment that makes it obvious, but there are signs to watch for.

Here are some key indicators that living alone may no longer be safe:

- Frequent confusion or disorientation, especially at night
- Wandering, particularly leaving the home unsafely
- Forgetting to eat, losing weight, or skipping medications
- Unable to manage daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or using the bathroom
- Frequent falls or safety incidents at home
- Increased anxiety, restlessness, or agitation
- Needing repeated hospital or doctor visits

If several of these signs are present, it may be time to consider more support, whether that's in-home care, moving in with family, or transitioning to a care facility. It helps to have an honest conversation with their doctor, who can assess where they are in their Alzheimer's progression and recommend the right level of care.

Whatever you decide, leading with love and reassurance goes a long way. As one myALZteam member shared, reminding a loved one often that they are safe and cared for can make a big difference during times of change.

6 days ago
A myALZteam Member

Hi @A myALZteam Member! I just recently got to the point when I realized my Mom can't be left alone. She has wandered off several times when she got her days confused, fallen twice, and has days when she needs assistance dressing. She requires someone else to cook for her as well. We put an alarm on her door so we can check to make sure she is not taking off. Because her needs are totally unpredictable, we feel the only safe arrangement is for her to live with us. Fortunately, we were able to turn our basement into an apartment for her which allows her to feel like she is in her own space, but gives us ample convenient access to her at any time. One of her falls was at 3am and I was SOOOO glad I just had to walk downstairs in my jammies! Hope you are able to work things out for your loved one.

3 days ago

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