People living with dementia will be more confused and disoriented in an emergency situation.

They may not be able to appropriately respond and manage emergency/changing situations like a healthy adult.

• Limit Stimulation
  • Lower noise level, is there a glare from lighting or shadows on the wall, sensations (hot/cold), too many people in room can cause anxiety
  • If you cannot modify the environment try headphones to minimize noise or distract with music, use sunglasses, and layer on clothing
• Be prepared to assist with all self-care activities
  • Make sure they are drinking and eating. They may not remember to eat or drink
  • Take them to restroom on a regular basis to avoid any potential accidents. They may not remember where the restroom is located.
  • Distract and Redirect
  • Go for a walk
  • Ask them to help (separate cans from boxes or fold blankets)
  • Communication
    • Avoid long, elaborate explanations. Give only NEEDED information and give it one thought at a time
• Provide constant reassurance
  • “You are safe and in the right place.”
• Watch their body language like pacing, fidgeting, anxiousness. Do not ignore these signs, intervene before they become a “problem”
• Anticipate unexpected reactions and wandering issues – do not leave them alone
• Watch YOUR body language. They will mimic what they see.
• Do not argue, confront or condescend. They are adults and expect to be treated as adults.
• Acknowledge and respond to their feelings (not necessarily their words)
  • “You seem scared. I know you are, but you are in a safe place and we are together”
  • Tell others about a diagnosis – volunteers and emergency response teams will be able to better assist you.

ASSISTING CONFUSED ELDERLY.  People living with dementia cannot manage changing situations like a healthy adult. Confusion can lead to panic.  Use the following tips:

LIMIT AGITATION FROM EXCESS NOISE, CROWDS AND DISCOMFORT.  Use headphones with soft music, sunglasses, a snack, and adequate clothing/blankets. 

REASSURE REGULARLY   “I know you are scared.  You are safe and in the right place and we are together.”

USE SIMPLE SENTENCES, SLOWLY, CALMLY.  USE A PLEASANT FACE.  They cannot comprehend complex information.

REDIRECT RESTLESSNESS BY GIVING THEM FOOD, WATER OR A SIMPLE JOB TO DO.

THEY MAY NOT REMEMBER TO EAT, DRINK AND USE THE TOILET.  CHECK OFTEN OR ASSIGN A BUDDY.

COHORT ELDERS NEAR FOOD, WATER AND TOILETS.  ASSIGN VOLUNTEERS TO STAY WITH THEM.

PROVIDE WRISTBANDS WITH NAME, FAMILY NAMES AND CONTACT INFORMATION.