Individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia can be confused at times and feel overwhelmed by their surroundings, therefore it is essential that their home is adapted to keep them safe and comfortable.
Although those with dementia require more care as their condition progresses, with proper support and home adaptions, they can continue to live safely at home for many years after their diagnosis.
Lighting
Lighting is incredibly important as this can help with confusion, risk of falls and improve orientation. For the daytime, natural light is best, so it’s good to remove unnecessary curtains and blinds from the house or replace them with curtains made out of lighter fabrics. Also, make sure to install some powerful light bulbs for when it gets dark.
Light and dark can help signify the start and end to the day. Those with dementia struggle with timings, so keeping the house bright when they’re awake, and dark when it’s late at night (heavy or blackout curtains in the bedroom can be useful for this) can help signify that it’s time to settle down and get ready for bed.
Keep Your Home Tidy and Declutter
It’s difficult for everyone to keep their home immaculate and uncluttered, but it is especially important for those with dementia to have a simple, and organised house. They need to be able to see everything they need, and not become confused or distracted.
Trip Hazards
Disorientation and poor coordination are common symptoms with dementia, so removing potential trip hazards is essential.
Rugs, mats, and cables are prime examples of trip hazards that should be removed.
Colours and Patterns
Dementia can affect your ability to tell the difference between colours, therefore it is important that furniture, walls, floors and décor are contrasting to make them easier to identify. For example, having a toilet seat that is a different colour to the rest of the bathroom.
You should avoid patterns and stripes as this can be confusing or disorientating.
Signs and Labels:
Labels, signs and instructions around the house can help reduce confusion and help individuals stick to a daily routine that they can carry out independently.
For example, labelling cupboards, and drawers with what is inside them, putting up a calendar with important dates and times, and keeping important items like keys and wallets in the same place.
Remove Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces:
People with dementia may become confused or distressed seeing their reflection, so it may be best to remove any mirrors or reflective surfaces. In addition, closing the curtains at night so they can’t see their reflection in the window glass.
Keep Frequently Used Items Visible:
Some of us like to have a minimalist home, with very little out on display. However, for those with dementia it can be quite confusing to find what they are looking for- especially in places like the kitchen and the bathroom.
Therefore, it may be helpful to put labels on cabinets listing the contents within. In addition, you can:
- get rid of unused utensils or products so there’s less clutter
- Hide any harmful substances like cleaning products and chemicals
- Using colour to highlight certain objects, for example, coloured plates to make food stand out.
- Storing items or leftover food in clear containers so they can be identified easily.
Making the Bedroom Safe and Comfortable:
For many, their bedroom is a safe sanctuary and this is no different for people with dementia.
Simple changes can be made such as:
- Choosing bedding that contrasts the rest of the room so it’s easier to see.
- Using a nightlight by the bed to help with orientation if they wake up in the middle of the night and to guide them back to bed in the dark.
- Having an outfit ready the night before- having a wardrobe full of clothes can be overwhelming so preplanning an outfit can make getting ready for the day and dressed more appealing.
Products Designed for People Living with Dementia:
There are also a range of products that have been specifically designed to help people with dementia, referred to as assistive technology.
This can include:
- Clocks with large displays showing the time and date
- TV remotes and phones with big and few buttons
- Crockery and utensils
- Games and puzzles- you can find out more about dementia-friendly activities
You can find out more about assistive technology here (Alzheimer’s society).
In addition, if the person with dementia hasn’t already done so, you can get a needs assessment from your local council, who will come and visit their home to identify if any alterations are necessary, such as grab rails.
Broomfield Care’s Role:
At Broomfield Care, we provide bespoke 1 to 1 care at home, to ensure the needs of you or your loved one are met to the highest of standards.
