Dementia is a progressive illness that can cause a variety of cognitive, behavioral and physical changes over time. People with dementia may become forgetful, disoriented, and unable to remember important things. These changes can make it difficult for them to live independently and safely in their own home, so it’s important to have a plan in place to make sure their home is as dementia-friendly as possible.
Organization
Organization is key when it comes to making a house dementia-friendly. Clutter and disorganization can be confusing and disorienting for someone with dementia, so it’s important to make sure the home is clean, orderly, and free of distractions. All furniture should be placed in an easily accessible location and labeled in a way that is easy to understand. This will help the person with dementia to be able to find what they need quickly and easily.
Safety
Safety should always be a priority when creating a dementia-friendly home. Make sure that all areas of the home are free of potential hazards, such as loose rugs, sharp furniture, and unstable stairs or handrails. If necessary, add extra locks or safety alarms to prevent the person with dementia from wandering out of the home. Install motion-activated lighting in dark areas so that it is easier for the person to move around safely.
Familiarity
The more familiar the home environment is, the easier it will be for someone with dementia to orient themselves. Keep furniture and other objects in the same location as much as possible. Place pictures, artwork, and other familiar objects in easy-to-see places that can be used as visual cues. Utilize various colors and textures to help to distinguish different rooms and objects.
Technology
Technology can be a valuable tool for helping people with dementia to remain independent for as long as possible. Install voice-activated devices that can be used to control various appliances, such as lights, fans, and televisions. If a caregiver is needed, set up a system to alert them if the person with dementia is in need of assistance. Additionally, tablets or computers can be used to provide reminders or access resources like medical information.
Simplicity
Simplicity is important when making a home dementia-friendly. Too many choices or too much information can be overwhelming for someone with dementia. Stick to simple, easy-to-understand labels and signage. Try to keep decorations and furniture to a minimum, as too much can be confusing and disorienting. Consider changing the color of walls and furniture as this can be helpful in distinguishing between different rooms and objects.
Outdoor Space
Having access to an outdoor space can be beneficial for someone with dementia. For instance, spending time outdoors in nature can be calming and soothing. Make sure there is plenty of seating and safe pathways to get around outside. If possible, install a vegetable or flower garden, as this can provide additional structure, purpose, and enjoyment for the person living with dementia.
Support
Creating a dementia-friendly home can be overwhelming, so it’s important to have a strong support system in place. Consider hiring a professional home care provider or a dementia specialist to help with organizing and setting up the home. Additionally, family members and friends can provide extra help and support. Having a network of people to turn to can make the process of creating a dementia-friendly home much easier.
Conclusion
Making a home dementia-friendly is an important step for keeping someone with dementia safe and independent. Organization, safety, familiarity, and simplicity are all key components of making a home dementia-friendly. Additionally, technology, outdoor space, and support can help to make the process much easier. With the right plan in place, it is possible to create a home that is both safe and comfortable for someone with dementia.