Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

This November, Safety Stage is highlighting some key safety topics to reinforce awareness and urge companies and employees to take any necessary actions to keep your workplace safety training relevant. Staying vigilant with workplace safety training is key during the excitement of the holiday season that often causes many distractions at work. One of these topics that is not commonly discussed is Alzheimer’s disease in the workplace. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. It is also one of the biggest causes of Dementia and it’s cause still isn’t entirely understood. Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s is a chronic and progressive condition that only gets worse over time and affects all aspects of one’s life and the lives of those around them.

While a colleague with Alzheimer’s may seem able to function as normal in the early stages of the disease, their abilities will likely reduce over time. The common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s are: confusion, disorientation, difficulty with decision-making, problems with speech, changes to personality such as uncharacteristic aggression, hallucinations, low mood, depression, or anxiety. It is important to be able to recognize these signs and notice if there is a progression in anyone diagnosed. 

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, it’s often recommended that patients continue to work (with adjustments) or at least volunteer (if they don’t already work) to keep their minds engaged. A worker with Alzheimer’s cannot legally be dismissed for having Alzheimer’s, and it is the responsibility of the employer to make the workplace safe for them. In the later stages of the disease, working may become more difficult and retirement may be recommended for the patient’s safety.

To reduce your personal risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, here are a few things to keep in mind to do in your everyday life to optimize your health:

1. Cut down on or quit smoking
2. Reduce alcohol intake 
3. Stay physically fit and maintain a healthy weight recommended by physicians
4. Stay mentally active 
5. Eat a healthy diet  

To learn more about Alzheimer’s and how to protect your mind and stay healthy, please visit: https://safetystage.com/safety-topics/november-safety-topics/#Alzheimers_disease_and_the_workplace.

DII is your partner in workplace health and safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to recognize the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and best safety practices. Please contact your DII representative for more information.  #Alzheimers