Improving Dementia Care at Home

A well-prepared environment can improve the quality of life and care for persons living with dementia.

Small changes at home can help provide a sense of safety, comfort, and familiarity for individuals living with dementia. Thoughtfully organizing their living environment can also ease caregiving challenges. Consider the following to safely and comfortably adapt their home to their needs.

I. Ensure Safety

Persons living with dementia experience an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Take these precautions to make their home environment safer:

1. Install locks or childproof latches on cabinets containing medications, cleaning supplies, sharp objects, and tools.
2. Use motion-sensor lights to automatically illuminate dim or frequented areas, such as halls, closets, and bathrooms.
3. Use safety gates to block off stairs and areas with unavoidable tripping hazards.
4. Clear pathways of clutter and ensure adequate lighting, especially in hallways and staircases.
5. Ensure furniture placement allows for easy and safe movement throughout the home.
6. Remove mats and rugs wherever possible. Secure all edges of necessary floor coverings to reduce tripping hazards.

II. Create Comfort

Fostering a calming environment can reduce the sense of agitation and confusion that often accompanies dementia. The following suggestions can improve the comfortability of a home:

1. Good lighting makes a room and its contents clearly visible. It also provides a secure sense of location in the home.
2. Reduce background noise from TVs, radios, or other devices. These noises can overstimulate and confuse.
3. Use soft music or “nature” sounds to create a soothing atmosphere.
4. Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and provide blankets or sweaters as needed.
5. Choose chairs and sofas that provide good support and are easy to get in and out of.
6. Remove furniture and other objects with sharp edges to further reduce injury risk.

III. Maintain Familiarity

Familiarity provides a sense of security, comfort, and control for those living with dementia. These efforts are important to bolster their sense of well-being in their home.

1. Surround your loved one with cherished photographs, mementos, and familiar objects. These things can help trigger positive memories.
2. Use their favorite furniture or decor in common areas.
3. Keep essential and frequently used items in plain sight. This includes items such as a favorite blanket, a clock, or a photo album.
4. Keep daily-use items, like toiletries and clothing, easily accessible in the place most familiar and preferred by the person living with dementia.
5. Label doors, cabinets, and drawers with words or pictures to help them navigate their home.
6. Place signs on bathroom doors and light switches to minimize confusion.
7. Declutter spaces to prevent sensory overload and make the home feel less chaotic.
8. Most importantly, recognize and respect the preferences and routines of your person living with dementia. If a significant change is unavoidable, be willing to break it into small manageable stages over time.

Making a Difference

Setting up and equipping a home to meet the changing needs of a person living with dementia is more than an act of kindness. You’re creating an environment that supports their safety, comfort, and emotional well-being. Well-directed and considerate efforts now can help your loved one enjoy their day-to-day life for years to come.

For more information on assisting persons living with dementia and their caregivers, contact the Dementia Caregivers Program at Moultrie County Health Department.