Caring for a Loved One with Dementia at Home:

Support, Safety, and When to Ask for Help

Watching a loved one navigate the challenges of dementia can be both emotionally heartbreaking and deeply rewarding. Many families choose to care for their loved ones at home, where familiar surroundings and routines can help reduce confusion and provide comfort. However, dementia brings unique safety concerns and caregiving challenges that require ongoing support, patience, and often — professional help.

At Griswold Home Care Fargo, we understand the delicate balance of maintaining independence while ensuring safety and dignity for your loved one. Here’s what you should know when caring for someone with dementia in the home:

Understanding Dementia in the Home Setting

Dementia affects memory, decision-making, communication, and the ability to perform daily tasks. As the disease progresses, changes in personality, behavior, and even physical coordination can make caregiving more complex. Learn more about dementia and dementia related diseases at the Alzheimer’s Association

But with the right support system and environment, home can still be a safe and loving place for someone living with dementia.

Creating a Safe Home Environment

Safety is a top priority when caring for someone with dementia. Here are a few essential home safety tips:

• Simplify the layout: Reduce clutter, rearrange furniture for easy navigation, and remove trip hazards like rugs and cords.
• Lock up hazards: Secure cleaning products, medications, sharp objects, and tools.
• Use signage and labels: Mark bathroom doors, drawers, and cabinets to support memory cues.
• Install safety features: Grab bars in the bathroom, automatic nightlights, and door alarms can prevent falls and wandering.
• Monitor the kitchen: Consider stove knob covers, unplugging small appliances, or installing automatic shut-off devices.
• Remove or supervise access to vehicles: Driving can become unsafe, even in the early stages.

Establish a Routine

Dementia thrives on predictability. A consistent daily routine helps reduce anxiety, confusion, and agitation. Try to:

• Schedule meals, hygiene, and activities at the same times daily
• Offer regular gentle exercise or outdoor time when possible
• Include meaningful tasks to foster a sense of purpose

Knowing When to Call for Help

Caring for someone with dementia can be a full-time responsibility, and it’s okay to admit when you need help. Here are some signs it might be time to bring in professional support:

• Your loved one is unsafe alone, even for short periods
• You’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or burnt out
• You’re missing work, family time, or neglecting your own health
• Care needs are increasing beyond what you can manage (i.e., bathing, mobility, incontinence, or nighttime wandering)

Even if you’re not ready for full-time care, respite care, companionship, or overnight support can make a huge difference in your well-being and your loved one’s quality of life.

How Griswold Home Care Fargo Can Help

At Griswold Home Care Fargo, we specialize in non-medical in-home care that supports those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our carefully selected caregivers are trained in dementia care and offer a compassionate, respectful presence in your home.

We offer support that includes:

• Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Meal preparation and nutrition monitoring
• Companionship and cognitive engagement
• Wandering prevention and safety supervision
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Overnight and 24/7 care options

Whether you need a few hours a week or full-time help, we’ll build a care plan that fits your loved one’s needs and your family’s schedule.

You’re Not Alone

Dementia care is a journey no one should walk alone. Let our Griswold Home Care Fargo team help you create a safer, more supportive environment for your loved one at home — while giving you the peace of mind and breathing room you deserve.