One-Third of Caregivers Say Alzheimer's Patients Have Access to Guns at Home, Study Finds

A caregiver survey published in JAMA Network Open found that about one-third of people with Alzheimer's disease have access to a firearm in their home, yet few caregivers have talked about what should be done when their loved ones are unfit to handle guns, reports CNN . Less than 20 percent of polled caregivers were concerned about their loved one intentionally injuring themselves or others, with nearly 70 percent saying their greatest fear was of accidental injury. Although most respondents said they would welcome discussing gun safety with doctors or other healthcare providers, just 5 percent said their providers had raised the issue. "As healthcare providers, family members, and friends, we can help older adults think about what they would want to happen with their firearms, if they become unsafe to use them," said University of Colorado School of Medicine Professor Emmy Betz. "This approach promotes respect for independence and preferences while also ensuring safety."