ACC Creating a Safe Environment 2

Question 1

A person with Alzheimer's repeatedly tries to leave through the back door at dusk. Which environmental modification best addresses this 'sundowning' exit-seeking behavior?

Accepted Answer

Place a full-length mirror on or beside the back door

Answer

Install a deadbolt requiring a key on the inside

Answer

Lock the person in their bedroom after 4 PM

Answer

Remove all furniture near the door

Question 2

Which flooring characteristic poses the greatest fall risk for a person with Alzheimer's disease?

Accepted Answer

High-gloss hardwood that creates light reflections

Answer

Low-pile carpet in a neutral color

Answer

Matte vinyl with slight texture

Answer

Cork flooring with minimal pattern

Question 3

Why should caregivers remove or cover mirrors in some stages of Alzheimer's disease?

Accepted Answer

The person may not recognize their reflection and become frightened or agitated

Answer

Mirrors cause motion sickness in persons with dementia

Answer

Reflections can trigger seizures in Alzheimer's patients

Answer

Mirrors increase hoarding behaviors

Question 4

A caregiver notices the person with Alzheimer's keeps rummaging through a cabinet full of cleaning chemicals. What is the BEST intervention?

Accepted Answer

Move chemicals to a locked cabinet or out of the home entirely

Answer

Label all chemicals clearly so the person knows what they are

Answer

Allow rummaging since it provides sensory stimulation

Answer

Install a motion alarm on the cabinet

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of using contrasting colors (e.g., a brightly colored toilet seat) in a bathroom used by a person with Alzheimer's?

Accepted Answer

To compensate for depth-perception and visual contrast deficits

Answer

To make cleaning easier for the caregiver

Answer

To stimulate mood and reduce depression

Answer

To comply with ADA bathroom requirements

Question 6

Which action BEST reduces the risk of scalding for a person with Alzheimer's who can no longer reliably judge water temperature?

Accepted Answer

Set the water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C) or lower

Answer

Post a sign reminding them to test the water first

Answer

Purchase a digital thermometer for the bathroom

Answer

Supervise every bath or shower without changing the water heater setting

Question 7

A person with Alzheimer's living alone keeps turning on the stove and forgetting it. After other strategies fail, what environmental solution is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Install an automatic stove shut-off device or remove the stove knobs when unsupervised

Answer

Replace the stove with one that has larger knobs

Answer

Move the stove to a less visible location

Answer

Apply brightly colored stickers to remind them to turn it off