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

A mirror on or beside an exit door can discourage wandering because many people with Alzheimer's do not recognize their own reflection and turn away.

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

High-gloss surfaces create light reflections that persons with Alzheimer's may perceive as water or obstacles, increasing fall and misstep risk.

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

In mid-to-late Alzheimer's, individuals often fail to recognize their own reflection, which can cause fear, confusion, or verbal/physical aggression.

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

Toxic substances must be secured in locked storage or removed from the home because labeling alone is not reliable for someone with cognitive impairment.

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

Alzheimer's disease impairs contrast sensitivity and depth perception, so contrasting colors help the individual locate fixtures and surfaces accurately.

(ACC) Alzheimers Caregiver Certification Practice Test

(ACC) Alzheimers Caregiver Certification Practice Test

ACC Creating a Safe Environment 2