Have your elderly loved ones had problems with remembering details or tasks on their own? Forgetfulness in an older person could a potential sign of the onset of dementia.
It is estimated that more than 5.5 million Americans, most over the age of 65, are suffering from dementia in the form of Alzheimer’s .[1] The Alzheimer’s Association says that 6 out of 10 patients who have dementia will be found wandering.[2]
As a caregiver, you may not be able to prevent this tendency to wander, but you can make sure that they don’t go outside the houses while you are not around.
The door lock should be double keyed so that it can be locked from inside the house as well. This ensures that your loved ones cannot unlock the door and wander away.
In this article, we review some of the best door locks for dementia patients. The table below provides a quick snapshot of our top picks, and we go into more discussion and details further down. Let’s get started!
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Contents
What Are Signs of ?
- Returning from regular walks or drives later than the normally do.
- Forgetfulness about how to reach places they normally go to.
- Talking about completing obligations (such as at work) that they have previously mentioned and may have already completed.
- Expressing desire to “go home” even when already at home.
- Physical restlessness, pacing, or repetitive movements.
- Having trouble locating familiar things or rooms in the home.
- Appearing lost when entering a new or changing environment.
- Expression of nervousness or anxiety in commonly crowded areas, such as in restaurants or malls.
Reducing Risk of
The wandering element of can be tricky, but the following are tips that may help a or family member reduce risk of wandering for a
- Determine what time of day the person is most likely to wander, and plan activities to do during this time. This can help reduce anxiety and agitation.
- Ensure all basic needs are met and easily accessible; this includes toileting, nutrition, and hydration. Consider reducing (not totally eliminating) liquid intake around 2 hours prior to bedtime so as the reduce need for the person to get out of bed to seek the washroom.
- Reassure your loved one at times when they feel lost or disoriented, especially when it is accompanied with anxiety and agitation.
- If the person is no longer able to drive, remove the availability of car keys, as a person with dementia may forget that they can no longer drive and may wander by car.
- Avoid commonly crowded areas like restaurants or malls when possible.
- Assess the person’s response to new surroundings. Do not leave someone with dementia unsupervised if new surroundings may cause confusion, disorientation or agitation.
- Install a two-way that can be locked on the inside as well, so that your loved one will be unable to wander outside.
Best Locks for a or
#1 – Code-a-Key Double Keypad Latch Door Lock
The Code-a-Key lock’s primary feature is that it’s a double-sided lock that can be locked from both sides of the door, making it difficult for a dementia sufferer to wander outside their home.
Features and Benefits
- Two Way Security: This lock features dual keypads that provide two-way Security. You can lock from indoors, preventing your loved ones from wandering outside.
- Safety: This door scraps any “reach through” security risks in your window doors and gates. It has reliable mechanical operation without any batteries required.
- Independent Keypad Programming: The Code-a-Key door lock provides a separate Code and No-Code option on both sides of the door for convenient usage.
- QuickCode Design: This door lock introduces a new “QuickCode” design to change the codes more quickly and easily.
Why should you buy it?
This is a two-way security lock providing you with some much-needed rest as a caretaker to a dementia or . It also helps you change codes very easily without much hassle.
Why It’s Our Top Choice
The All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Door Lock (Satin Chrome) is our top choice for best door locks for dementia patients for the following reasons:
- Dual keypad – locks from both inside and outside
- Independent programming on either side – keep a simpler code for inside use and a tougher code outside to prevent burglars
- QuickCode – easy code changing
- No “reach through” security risk, bump proof key
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#2 – Jounjip Dual Keypad Combination Latch Door Lock
The latch door lock by Jounjip is also a double-sided door lock with separate code access on both the side of the door.
Features and Benefits
- No Batteries Required: You don’t need any batteries to operate this door lock. The mechanical keyless operation is quite reliable.
- Dual Keypads: This lock has also has 2-way Security with a keypad on both sides of the door. The installation does require some intermediate level of expertise to install.
- Keyless Lock: The lock features two different passcodes possible for both the primary and secondary keypads.
- No Easy Release Button: The Jounjip keyless lock has a No Easy Release Button so that you can prevent easy release of the latch.
- QuickCode Design: This door lock has a QuickCode Design on the back of the keypad that help you change the codes in a simpler manner.
Why should you buy it?
This is a battery-less keypad lock without any keys required. You can set two different passcodes for the primary and secondary keypads.
#3 – Schlage BE469ZP CAM 716 Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt
The Schlage BE469ZP CAM 716 Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt’s dimensions are 5 x 3 x 1 inch, and it weighs 3.8 pounds with 4 AA batteries required to operate.
Features and Benefits
- Lock & Unlock from Anywhere: You can pair this smart lock with a Z Wave security system that will help unlock and lock from everywhere, similar to SmartThings.
- Voice Operated Device: The lock supports voice control, and it requires a Z Wave smart home system and a compatible voice assistant such as an Alexa device. You can pair this smart lock with a Z Wave security system like SmartThings, which will help unlock and lock from everywhere.
- Easy Installation: This smart lock is quite easy to install with just a standard screwdriver. The unique snap and stay technology snaps the deadbolt onto the door, so both hands are free during installation.
- Fingerprint Resistant Touchscreen: You can conveniently use the fingerprint-resistant touchscreen to share up to 30 entrance codes instead of keeping track of spare keys. Keying: 5-pin tumbler, C Keyway, one key included when touchscreen not working.
- Alarm Senses: The Schlage connect smart deadbolt comes with built-in alarm senses for potential door attacks. The lock is guaranteed to fit standard doors (1 3/8 inch to 1 3/4 inch door thickness & 2 3/8 inch or 2 3/4 inch backset).
Why should you buy it?
This is a that can be operated from anywhere, so you don’t need to worry when you have to leave any alone in the house. It features senses as well for potential attacks.
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#4 – Kwikset 99070-101 Powerbolt
The Kwikset 99070-101 Powerbolt’s dimensions are 3.74 x 5.59 x 7.87 inches and it weighs 2.6 pounds.
Features and Benefits
- Superior Security: You get a classy designer style and excellent security with this Kwikset Signature Series smart lock. The Smart key security re-key technology is compatible with the Kwikset (KW1) keyway.
- Automatic Door Locking: This smart door lock features a customized automatic door locking system in which it locks itself after 30 seconds for peace of mind, and the keypad stays lit for 5 seconds even after inactivity.
- Smart Key: The smart key security protects against advanced break-in techniques, allowing you to re-key your lock yourself in just seconds.
- High Quality: This smart lock is ANSI/BHMA grade three certified.
- Adjustable Backset: The smart lock includes a latch with an adjustable backset 2 to 3/8 inches to 2 to 3/4 inches to fit all kinds of standard doors.
- User Codes: This lock is programmed for up to six unique codes for family, friends, or caretakers. You can also set a one-time use temporary code.
- Easy Installation: This lock can be installed in just a few minutes with a standard screwdriver.
Why should you buy it?
This Kwikset 99070-101 Powerbolt smart lock automatically locks itself after 30 seconds in case you forget to lock it for better safety.
#5 – OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock
The OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock’s dimensions are 5.12 x 3.03 x 1.18 inches and it weighs 1.68 pounds.
Features and Benefits
- Keyless entry: You can unlock your door conveniently with this lock, avoiding need to fumble with a key. This keypad lock offers key free access to home that uses an illuminated keypad. An free override lock is available as extra backup.
- User Codes: You can give a one-time code to your home to anyone while you are out of the city, or preset up to 20 memorable user codes, especially for kids or an older person.
- Automatic Locking System: This keypad door lock allows you to set the door to automatically lock after 10 or more seconds or apply one motorized touch locking, so you never have to worry about whether you locked your door.
- Easy to Install: With a detailed instructional video and manual, you will be able to both install and program the electronic door lock by yourself. The lock is battery-powered by four aa batteries and needs no hard wiring.
- Durability: This lock has solid lock cylinder, anti peeping code protection, low battery index, long run performance, IP54 weather resistance, fast unlocking, and premium metal construction.
- Aesthetic Design: This door lock comes in an oval-shaped design, either with a silver or satin-nickel finish that complements any decor style.
Why should you buy it?
This OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock is great for homeowners looking for a lock that goes well with their home decor. It is weather-resistant as well.
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#6 – Tacklife Electronic Keypad Lock
The Tacklife Electronic Keypad Lock’s dimensions are 13 x 8.86 x 3.43 inches and it weighs 5.41 pounds.
No products found.Features and Benefits
- Complete Door Handle Set: The smart keypad lock come with a matching handle and an interior knob. It will act as a complete unit, so you don’t need to buy an additional door handle.
- Secure: This lock is ANSI/BHMA Grade three certified, the highest residential security rating, ensuring your security. This lock has a customizable automatic door locking system that locks after 10-99 seconds when you forget to lock it.
- All-Weather Protection: The keypad door lock with handle is waterproof. It works in rain, snow, salty air, and it can withstand temperatures ranging from -20°C/-4°F to 70°C/158°F.
- Long Battery Life: The 4 AA (1.5v, LR6) alkaline batteries can be conveniently used for more than one year even if you lock or unlock the door ten times per day.
- Keyless Entry & 6 User Codes: The lock features one-touch locking, a back-lit keypad, six customizable user codes in 4 – 10 digit along with one-time use codes, low battery indication, easy to install, and program.
Why should you buy it?
This Tacklife electronic keypad lock comes with a matching handle and a polo interior knob providing you a complete door handle set. It offers all-weather protection as well.
No products found.
#7 – Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock
The Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock’s dimesions are 7 x 3 x 1.12 inches and it weighs 4.14 pounds.
Features and Benefits
- Multiple Ways To Unlock: The Sifely lock is an advanced 5-in-1 keyless entry smart door lock. It unlocks via fingerprint, code, fob, smartphone, as well as physical key.
- Easy Installation: This keyless lock is easy to install in just minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver by following a short installation video. No drills or locksmith is needed for installation. The door handle is reversible for both left and right-handed door.
- Remote Control: You can pair this door lock with the Sifely WiFi Gateway. You can lock or unlock your door lock anywhere and anytime. Set up the codes remotely and check real-time access logs.
- Battery Life: The keyless lock is operated by 4 AA alkaline batteries that are guaranteed up to 1 year over 10,000 locks/unlock times.
- 3rd Gen Fingerprint Access: You can secure fingerprint ID with the 3rd Gen fingerprint access technology. The scratch-proof, dustproof, and waterproof sensor makes unlocking easy and secure. Unlimited fingerprints can be enrolled, and the time for identification is less than 0.3 seconds.
Why should you buy it?
This Sifely lock unlocks through 5 ways, including 3rd generation fingerprint access technology. It is scratch-proof, dustproof, and waterproof.
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Buyer’s Guide: Best Door Locks For Dementia Patients
Multiple User Codes
This feature can help a lot when you need to give access to the door lock to multiple people. Taking care of dementia patients can be quite tricky, so multiple user codes are always a better option. A lock should at least have five unique user codes.
Automatic Door Locking System
With this feature, the door automatically locks itself after 10 to 99 seconds in case you forget to lock the door, providing you with relief from anxiety and the hassle of returning home.
Lock/Unlock From Anywhere
This feature allows you to lock or unlock your door from anywhere directly from your smartphone. It can help a lot in case of any emergency concerning your loved one with dementia and you are not nearby.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are ways other than door locks to secure a door for dementia patients?
One effective technique other than door locks is to put a big black doormat in front of the door. Most seniors with dementia tend to perceive a floor’s dark areas as holes and won’t walk over them. This can discourage them from reaching the door.
Q. Can someone with dementia be left alone?
Generally, once a patient enters the intermediate phase of dementia, it may be unsafe to leave them alone, as this is the stage in which they might require help with necessary daily living activities like dressing, bathing, and grooming.
A high-quality door lock might stop them from wandering outside, but they can get themselves in trouble inside the house too.
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Parting Words – Keep Your Loved Ones Safe and Protected
The wandering that may accompany dementia can be a challenge for your loved one to overcome, but as their caretaker, there are a number of steps you can take to help keep your loved one safe and protected in and around the home. In this article, we looked at one of these steps. Installing a two-way door lock is one of the easiest ways to prevent your loved one with dementia from wandering outside, so that they’re unable to become lost and potentially hurt themselves when they are not under your supervision.
In our opinion, the All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Door Lock (Satin Chrome) is one of the best door locks to buy for this purpose, because it locks on both sides very conveniently, allowing you to stop your loved one from wandering outside. It also has solid build quality.
The JOUNJIP Mechanical Keyless Combination Latch Door Lock [Flat Spindle] - Double Sided Keypads for Gates, Fences, Windows - No Battery No Power Needed (Oil-Rubbed Bronze) - Not a Deadbolt is our next best choice, as it also has a dual way locking mechanism.
If you are looking for a value for money option, you can also consider the OrangeLion Keyless Entry Deadbolt Lock, Electronic Keypad Door Lock, Auto Lock, 1 Touch Locking, 20 Customizable User Codes, Back Lit, Easy Installation for Front Back Door, Satin Nickel, which offers great value and features at a very reasonable price point.
For more products, read best for , and best bed alarms for
For activities to keep them occupied, you should read best busy boards for dementia patients, best gloves and mitts for dementia fidgeting, and best game apps for seniors with dementia.
References
[1] https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet
[2] https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering
