When planning care for a client with Alzheimer's disease, what safety instruction is crucial for the nurse to provide?

In caring for a client with Alzheimer's disease, the focus should be on creating a safe and supportive environment that minimizes confusion and reduces the risk of accidents. Removing clutter from rooms and hallways is crucial because individuals with Alzheimer's may have impaired judgment, decreased spatial awareness, and difficulty processing their surroundings. A clutter-free environment helps to prevent falls and makes it easier for the client to navigate their living space.

By reducing visual distractions, the nurse can help enhance the client's ability to focus on essential tasks and create a calmer atmosphere. Additionally, a well-organized space aids caregivers in monitoring the client's movements and providing assistance when necessary, further enhancing safety.

While using bright colors and providing stimulating activities can be beneficial in certain contexts, they do not directly address immediate safety concerns. Frequent changes in furniture layout may lead to confusion and disorientation, which can further exacerbate safety risks for individuals with cognitive impairments. Therefore, the primary focus should be on ensuring a safe, structured environment that reduces hazards.