People living with AD gradually lose the ability to think and reason, to judge what is or isn't practical and safe. Even if your loved one is alert and relatively independent, you should take precautions now to help keep her safe and secure for as long as possible. It is essential that you anticipate the time when it is no longer safe for her to live alone. Experts advise that long before the need arises, you should plan for full-time professional help or for moving her to an eldercare facility.