Caregiver Tips
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Grab bars and railings work well to not only assist one in getting up from the toilet and preventing falls, but in other ways also. They can benefit the person with Alzheimers, the caregiver, and guests who can also use them to lean on when lifting or transferring a loved one.
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Grab bars in the shower should be installed on the far wall, opposite the shower door. That way, when the person turns, they will face away from both the caregiver and the shower exit. It functions both as a safety device, but also a “diversion” , redirecting the person’s attention from likely sources of agitation of escape from the shower or a “stranger” bathing him. It makes the bathing task a little more dignified and the person is likely to be calmer since they are helping with their own bath.
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Railings can also be used in long hallways to represent safety and prevent a fall, and can be used to outline a desired route to another room. This is especially helpful in the bedroom to bathroom pathway.