When a family member or friend becomes affected by slight senility or dementia, you will want to do everything within your power to help them to remain safe and happy while also maintaining their independence. Because of course, many people affected by these conditions are able to maintain their independence, either while living alone or with their partner, or even when living with you and your family. Rather logically, one of the most important ways to stay safe is to ensure that a home is secure, and this starts with an effective door lock. There can be added dimensions to this basic concept when someone might be affected by senility or dementia. The solutions can be effective and remarkably straightforward.

A Simple Solution

Check both the front and back doors to your family member or friend's door. Are they self-closing? It really can be this simple. The basic act of forgetting to close and lock the door can be overcome with a deadbolt and a self-latching door. Once whoever has opened the door releases their grasp, the door closes and locks itself. Safe, secure, and simple.

A Smart Solution

The prospect of a memory lapse locking someone out of their home needs to be addressed when a person is affected by senility or dementia. It's vital that the person should be able to re-enter their home immediately, and this is when it can be prudent to have a smart lock installed. Your family or member might be at a stage where the act of remembering their keys can be problematic. A smart lock overcomes this, and any locksmith can quickly and easily install one for you. There are a couple of things to consider:

• Opt for a smart lock that is compatible with a smart watch and operates on a proximity basis. Provided your loved one is wearing their watch (which should become a habit), the door will simply unlock itself as they approach.

• The smart lock should also grant remote access. This allows you to grant entry when your family member or friend might not be able to. You can simply unlock the door with a phone app as needed, whether it's for medical professionals, tradespeople, or other friends and family members.

It can be worrying when a family member or friend becomes affected by mild senility or dementia. But by finding an appropriate security solution for their home, it's certainly going to be something less to worry about.