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What can be done for a patient that won't stop walking or getting up to the point of exhaustion? Too far gone to use walking aids or follow directions. Bends to the floor constantly then falls over. Not interested in any activities due to decline. If they fall to the floor they can't get up. Staff have had to lift them up as no other options ATM. Staff are also having to support them non-stop to prevent the fall which means staff are bearing patients weight constantly for their 8 hour shift. Injuries galore waiting to happen for the staff and patients. I hope someone has some ideas before someone is hurt.

Discussion of such a "patient" should be had with the administration so that a Medical Team can be involved.
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Reply to AlvaDeer
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A wheelchair with a tilt back makes it much more difficult for a person to get out of. This would not be considered a restraint.
You could place a wheelchair in front of a desk or table as long as the person can move the chair. You could not attach a table top to the chair as that would be a restraint.
A chair alarm could be used. Many places no longer use them as they can be disruptive.
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Reply to Grandma1954
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A calming medication or combination of meds for this should be tried. It can’t feel good to your loved one to be this restless
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Reply to Daughterof1930
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AnnaKat Jul 13, 2025
I agree. My husband was always walking or trying to run away at every hour (beside other issues). Long story short, a psychiatric hospital sent him home on medication. He is now much calmer and happier. I was skeptical of meds and so was he, but we have changed our mind.
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An anti-anxiety med may help.
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Reply to LoopyLoo
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The doctor hasn't recommended anti-agitation medication? What about non-medication options like aromatherapy, music, or TV programs designed to be restful and comforting? I saw the latter on the Dementia Society of America website.

Searching on YouTube, there's actually a lot on relaxing dementia patients. Type or paste into the search box "videos for dementia patients to watch or "dementia music therapy" to sample some of the music offerings. There are also a lot of informative vids on the science behind the use of music therapy.

As my grandmother would say, "Nothing missed but a try" Hopefully you'll see some good results and LO can rest.
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Reply to ravensdottir
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Isthisrealyreal Jul 7, 2025
Raven, I love that, "nothing missed but a try."

Your grandma was obviously a wise woman.
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Justugh, my grandmother had to be strapped in a wheelchair. She would foot paddle through the facility hour after hour, day after day for years.

It was a soft harness type thing that kept her upright and contained.

Hopefully, they can use something like that instead of drugging him completely out of it to keep him still.

It's such a challenge finding a way to control behaviors without drugging them out. Not that some drugging isn't appropriate for agitation.
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Reply to Isthisrealyreal
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In the two States my daughter has been in you cannot strap a person into a wheelchair. Its considered a restraint. If a seat belt is used, the client must be able to release it. An alarm can be used.

I think this person needs to be medicated. Maybe talk to the Directorvof Nursing. This one resident is taking the aides away from the care of other residents. Maybe you saying that you are willing to try medications would help. A doctor will have to evaluate.
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Reply to JoAnn29
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Even people that have a strong belief in their religion, can still experience doubt about heaven or just a fear of the unknown.
Lots of people have at least a mustard’s seed of faith, but 100% is not as easy for everyone. The fear of when will I go? How will I get there? What will it be like? Some people say you go to heaven as soon as you die, and others say you rest in the ground until we are called back one day. I believe, but still have fears too. Just of the unknown. I think this contributes to the restlessness people get when they know they are declining in their health. The years do pass so quickly! The frustration for my father was how healthy he was up until 89, but was not able to maintain that with a dementia that he fought so hard against. He loved life and his family, and just really wanted to stay here with us. We miss him so much! I too felt the frustration of trying so hard, and not being able to fix his problems. I am so glad that our family took care of him. He would have been so restless at a facility, and not lasted as long.

Maybe the staff could use some heavy duty straps that help move furniture to place on themselves, to help support their own spines while helping to support the patients. Just an idea. Or maybe, two staff members could support the restless patient, and just do lots of walking.
My Grandma used to say, “Gettin old ain’t for sissys!” That is so true.
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Reply to Tiger8
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That sounds incredibly challenging. It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when you're concerned about both the safety and well-being of someone in your care, and the staff assisting them. Let's explore some approaches that might help.
Behavior: Your loved one is constantly pacing, bending, and attempting to get up, leading to falls and exhaustion. They are unable to follow directions or use mobility aids, and they are uninterested in activities. Staff are constantly supporting them to prevent falls.
Here are some strategies that might help:
Category: Redirection
What to Say:
"It looks like you're feeling restless. Let's go for a short walk, then we can sit and have a snack."
"I see you want to move around. How about we go look at the pictures in the photo album together?"
Category: Environmental Modifications
What to Consider:
Ensure the environment is safe, with clear pathways and minimal obstacles.
Consider using floor mats or padding in areas where falls are likely.
Ensure adequate lighting to minimize shadows that might be misinterpreted.
Category: Safe Physical Support
What to Say & Do:
If the person is about to fall, gently guide them towards a safe place to sit, like a well-cushioned chair or onto the floor, if necessary.
Encourage staff to use proper body mechanics when assisting with transfers, such as bending at the knees and keeping their back straight.
When assisting a person to stand from the floor after a fall, the number of people needed to do this can be calculated, and proper training can be given to prevent caregiver injury.
Category: Comfort and Basic Needs
What to Do:
Regularly check for pain, as discomfort can exacerbate restlessness.
Ensure they are adequately hydrated and have regular access to the restroom.
Provide comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement.
Category: Professional Evaluation
What to Do:
Consult the person's doctor to rule out any underlying medical causes for the behavior, such as medication side effects or infections.
Ask the doctor to refer you to a physical therapist who can evaluate the person's mobility and offer safe exercise and transfer techniques.
Remember, every person with Alzheimer's is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Patience and a willingness to adapt are key. Please take care of yourself as well; caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint.
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Disclaimer:
The authors are not medical or healthcare professionals. The content on this website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It reflects both our personal experiences caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and insights gathered from current research and best practices in the field of dementia care.
Our goal is to share practical strategies and emotional support grounded in lived experience and informed by credible sources. However, this content should not be considered medical, psychological, legal, or professional advice.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's or other cognitive conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. For additional guidance and support, we recommend reading our book, available on Amazon, and connecting with your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter. You can find your nearest chapter at: https://www.alz.org/local_resources/find_your_local_chapter.


this answer was taken from caaregiversinfo.com cerbsite
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Reply to Colliecaregiver
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Justugh: Use anti anxiety medication.
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