Learn Basic First Aid Tailored for Dementia-Related Risks (e.g., Falls)

Caring for someone living with dementia comes with unique challenges, including an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Changes in mobility, balance, and awareness can make falls, burns, and other incidents more likely. Having a basic understanding of first aid tailored to dementia-related risks can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and reducing harm. The Red Cross highlights the importance of first aid knowledge for carers, helping them respond calmly and effectively to emergencies.

Why First Aid is Crucial for Dementia Care

People living with dementia may experience:

• Increased fall risk due to mobility issues, muscle weakness, or disorientation.
• Difficulty recognising danger, leading to accidental injuries such as burns or cuts.
• Reduced pain awareness, meaning they may not express discomfort even if they are hurt.
• Challenges in communication, making it harder to explain what has happened or where they feel pain.

Having basic first aid knowledge helps carers respond quickly, minimise distress, and provide the right care when accidents occur.

Common Dementia-Related Risks and First Aid Responses

1. Falls and Head Injuries

Falls are one of the most common accidents among people living with dementia. Uneven flooring, poor lighting, or confusion about surroundings can all contribute to trips and falls.

What to do if someone falls:

• Stay calm and reassure them. Sudden movements can cause panic.
• Check for injuries before helping them up. If they are in pain or unable to move, call for medical help.
• Help them up safely if there are no signs of injury. Use a stable chair to support them rather than pulling them up quickly.
• Monitor for delayed symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or confusion, which may indicate a head injury.

2. Burns and Scalds

People with dementia may accidentally touch hot surfaces, forget that a kettle or stove is on, or misjudge the temperature of water.

What to do for burns and scalds:

• Cool the burn immediately under lukewarm running water for at least 20 minutes.
• Remove jewellery or clothing near the burn, but do not remove anything stuck to the skin.
• Cover with a clean, non-fluffy cloth or cling film to protect the area.
• Seek medical help if the burn is severe, larger than a palm, or involves the face, hands, or joints.

3. Choking

Dementia can affect swallowing, increasing the risk of choking on food or medication.

What to do if someone is choking:

• Encourage them to cough if they can still breathe or speak.
• If coughing is ineffective, deliver up to five back blows between their shoulder blades.
• If necessary, perform up to five abdominal thrusts (if safe and appropriate for their physical condition).
• Call 999 immediately if the blockage doesn’t clear after multiple attempts.

4. Cuts and Bleeding

People with dementia may handle sharp objects unsafely or have thinner skin, making them more prone to cuts and bruises.

What to do for a cut or wound:

• Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
• Clean the wound gently with warm water and mild soap.
• Apply a plaster or bandage to protect the area.
• Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus, and seek medical help if needed.

Preventing Accidents in the Home

While knowing first aid is important, preventing accidents is even better. Here are some ways to create a safer home environment:

• Use nightlights to reduce disorientation and prevent falls.
• Ensure flooring is even and clutter-free to remove trip hazards.
• Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and stairways.
• Adjust water temperature settings to prevent accidental burns.
• Serve food in appropriate textures if swallowing difficulties are present.
• Encourage regular movement and exercise to improve strength and balance.

Learning More About First Aid

The Red Cross and other organisations offer basic first aid courses tailored to dementia-related risks. Attending a course can give carers confidence in handling emergencies and provide valuable, life-saving skills.

Seeking Additional Support

If you care for someone with dementia and are unsure how to handle specific risks, reaching out to healthcare professionals, occupational therapists, or dementia specialists can provide additional guidance.

By learning basic first aid tailored to dementia-related risks, carers can feel more prepared and confident in handling common accidents. With a few simple skills and adjustments, we can create a safer environment for those living with dementia, ensuring they remain as safe and comfortable as possible.

Sources:

• British Red Cross. (n.d.). “First Aid Skills for Carers.” Available at: https://www.redcross.org.uk/ [Accessed 9 March 2025]
• Alzheimer’s Society. (2023). “Safety in the Home for People with Dementia.” Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/staying-independent/safety-home [Accessed 9 March 2025]
• NHS. (2024). “First Aid for Common Injuries.” Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/first-aid/ [Accessed 9 March 2025]