On our last visit it became obvious that our elder shouldn't and can't walk.
It took several minutes to get from the bathroom to her bed; a matter of less than fifteen feet.
When she got to her bed she was feeling faint and exhausted.
It was like running a marathon for her.
This presents a variety of problems.
Getting into and out of bed is a problem.
Getting to the bathroom is a problem.
Getting into a car is a problem.
In fact, anything that requires mobility is nigh impossible without help.
Lifts: There are two types.
One is manual, meaning one or more caregivers physically lifts our elder up.
This can be hard on the caregivers even though they have been trained in how to lift properly and safely.
The other type is mechanical.
Some are slings and some are more involved.
We are getting to the point where this may become an issue that needs deep research.
Our elder isn't heavy for her height but as she's tall that's still heavy enough to cause back problems for human lifters.
Bedside Commodes: We have one for whenever it's needed but our elder isn't thrilled with the idea.
That will probably change as it gets more and more difficult to physically get to the bathroom.
A bedside commode uses chemicals to keep sanitary and can be reached from the bed by a "lift, pivot, sit" movement.
It will take time for her to learn the technique but other elderly family members have used one and learned.
Gait Belts: In California gait belts are considered a type of restraint and they have to be prescribed by a doctor.
After getting the prescription you may or may not be able to find a supplier easily.
We have not found one yet.
The actual function of a gait belt is twofold.
It gives the caregiver something to hold onto when making a transfer.
Grabbing the waistband of pants isn't always safe or effective.
The other duty is for falling.
If the elder starts to fall the gait belt allows the caregiver to lower the elder safely, breaking the fall.
It's a lot better than letting go and it's safer than the waist band.
Scooters: Nobody in his or her right mind would get a scooter for our elder.
This isn't solely because of the dementia.
I'm not sure we'd have gotten her one prior to the dementia.
There are people that shouldn't have them.
That said they are an excellent way of helping someone with mobility issues get around a house or an assisted living residence.
They can fold up and mount to the back of most vehicles and are very useful.
It is recommended that you take all of these suggestions up with your elder's doctor or geriatrician.
Losing mobility can affect many other aspects of an elder's life.
The doctor can make suggestions that help keep them from being damaging.