Simple tips to help make a home dementia friendly

Creating a dementia-friendly home can make a big difference, making those you care for feel more comfortable and independent. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help make a home safer and more dementia-friendly:

Clear pathways

Ensure that pathways around their house are clear of clutter and obstacles. This reduces the risk of falls and makes it easier for someone with dementia to navigate their surroundings.

Good lighting

Make sure their home is well-lit, especially in areas like hallways, stairs, and entrances. Good lighting helps to reduce confusion and improve visibility, making it easier to move around safely.

Simple layout

Suggest they keep furniture and decorations simple and easy to understand. Avoid having too much clutter, to help prevent confusion, and make it easier for them to find their way around the house.

Labels and signage

Use labels and signs to help identify different rooms and objects. Label drawers, cupboards, and shelves with pictures or words to help those you care for find what they need.

Safety measures

You can suggest to those you care for, or their family, that they install safety features like handrails in bathrooms and grab bars near toilets and showers to prevent accidents. Consider using locks or safety gates on doors leading to potentially dangerous areas like staircases or outside spaces.

Memory aids

Memory aids such as calendars, clocks, and whiteboards can help keep track of time, appointments, and daily tasks. Place these aids in visible areas where they can be easily accessed and referred to.

Familiar items

Encourage those you care for and their families to surround their home with familiar items and photographs that hold sentimental value. This can help evoke memories and provide comfort, making them feel more at ease in their environment.

Sensory stimulation

Incorporate sensory stimulation with items like soft blankets, textured cushions, or soothing music. These sensory experiences can help reduce anxiety and agitation.

Supportive technology

You may also wish to suggest the use of technology to enhance their safety and independence, such as automatic lights, remote-controlled thermostats, a video doorbell or GPS tracking devices. These tools can help provide peace of mind for families and caregivers.

Sources: Dementia UK, Alzheimer’s Society, NHS