05/22/2026
As Alzheimer’s progresses, you will see a significant change in your LO’s gait. A gait is the way that your LO walks. The change can happen suddenly or over time. You’ll begin to notice smaller steps, unsteady movement, leaning to the side, or difficulty navigating spaces. These changes are happening because dementia changes the area responsible for telling your LO’s body how to move. Their gait also changes because of what they perceive as shadows, floor changes, what appears to be obstacles to them, and due to muscle weakness and coordination.
As a caregiver, you can help ease their fear by clearing obstacles, adding lighting throughout the home, and using assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers, to support them.
The goal is to decrease falls and keep them safe. We’ve got this!