Head protection for Alzheimer's
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour.
People with Alzheimer’s are at an increased risk of falls, which can lead to head & other physical injuries. Head injuries can cause a variety of problems, including cognitive decline, personality changes, and in the most extreme cases serious injury or death. There are a number of different types of head protection that can be used to help prevent head injuries in people with Alzheimer’s.
The best type of head protection for an individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences.
Types of head protection for Alzheimer's
Hard hats are designed to protect the head from impact. They are typically made of a hard plastic or fiberglass shell and have a padded interior. Hard hats can be worn by people with Alzheimer’s who are at risk of falls from a height or from objects falling on their head. However they can be cumbersome and uncomfortable for long term use and most do not have a chin strap to ensure that the hard hat stays on the head in the event of a fall. i.e. when it is needed most.
Bump caps are a type of soft head protection that are designed to protect the head from minor bumps and knocks. They are typically made with a thin layer of impact resistant material and do not have a hard shell. Bump caps can be worn by people with Alzheimer’s who are at risk of falls from a low height or from bumping their head on objects. We provide some models of bump caps that look like normal hats and offer a degree of protection against low level impacts.
To see our range of soft helmets follow this link
Headbands are a type of soft head protection that can be used to keep hair out of the face and to prevent scalp injuries. They are typically made of a stretchy fabric and do not provide as much protection as hard hats or bump caps. Headbands can be worn by people with Alzheimer’s who are at risk of falls, but who do not need the full protection of a hard hat or bump cap. They offer only minimal protection from bumps to the head.
Also known as “Special Needs Helmets” these soft helmets offer the best level of protection which can be customised to a specific risk i.e forward falls & rearward falls. They can also incorporate additional protection for the sides and top of the head, cheek protection, chin protection etc. Soft helmets come in a variety of colours and styles.
To see our range of soft helmets follow this link
When to use head protection
This includes times when they are:
- Walking around the house or yard
- Climbing stairs
- Using tools or machinery
- Playing sports or engaging in other physical activities
- Taking part in activities that could lead to falls, such as dancing or swimming
How to choose the right head protection
When choosing head protection for a person with Alzheimer’s, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The individual’s risk of falls
- The individual’s preferences
- The type of activities the individual will be participating in
- The comfort and fit of the head protection
- It is also important to make sure that the head protection is properly fitted and adjusted. The head protection should not be too tight or too loose. It should also not interfere with the individual’s vision or hearing.
Talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional about the best type of head protection for your loved one with Alzheimer’s.
Other ways to prevent head injuries
In addition to using head protection, there are other things that can be done to help prevent head injuries in people with Alzheimer’s.
These include:
- Making the home safe by removing tripping hazards and clutter
- Providing adequate lighting
- Ensuring that the individual wears comfortable shoes with good traction
- Supervising the individual closely during activities that could lead to falls
- Teaching the individual how to fall safely
By taking these steps, you can help to keep your loved one with Alzheimer’s safe from head injuries.
Related products
-
HP-1 Special Needs Head Protection
- Exceptionally light
- Closed or open top
- Adjustable chin strap
- “All-round” protection
- Custom sizes available
-
HP-Base Head Protection Hat
- Impact-absorbing
- Looks like a normal cap
- Sports styling
- Removable chin strap
- Optimal fit
-
HP-3 Special Needs Helmet Head Protection
- Closed top design
- All round protection
- High-density foam
- Adjustable chin strap
- Leather outer & liner
-
HP-2 Special Needs Helmet (Cotton or Leather)
- Good head protection
- Exceptionally light
- Hand washable (cotton)
- Additional add-on options
- Leather option
- Good airflow
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