Creating a Dementia Friendly Home for individuals living with Dementia.  The design and layout of their home can significantly impact their daily life. Making simple changes around the house can create a dementia-friendly home, a substantial difference to ensuring safety and independence. In this guide, we’ll provide you with seven top tips to create a Dementia-friendly home, helping you or your loved one feel secure and comfortable at home.

1. Using Lighting to Create a Dementia-Friendly Home

Creating a Dementia-friendly home starts with ensuring that natural light can illuminate the house. Good lighting helps those with Dementia to see clearly and navigate their surroundings. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure the bedroom has adequate darkening options at night to aid in better sleep and distinguish between day and night during moments of confusion.

2. Ensure Safe Flooring for Dementia

Removing trip hazards is crucial for a Dementia-friendly environment. Replace decorative rugs and mats with plain, non-slip flooring to enhance safety. Keep the floor free from exposed cables and wires, and choose flooring that contrasts with the walls to reduce confusion.

3. Facilitate Eating and Drinking

Mealtimes can be challenging for individuals with Dementia, but you can adopt useful strategies to ease the process. Consider using plates, cups, and tablecloths that contrast with the food to help differentiate between the tableware and the meal. Using clear, plastic containers for storing food allows them to see the contents easily.

4. Opt for Visible Furniture when you create a Dementia Friendly Home

Dementia can affect colour perception, so it’s essential to choose bright and contrasting furniture pieces. This will help your loved one distinguish furniture better and prevent potential accidents. Avoid patterned or striped materials, as they can lead to further confusion.

5. Place Reminders Around When Creating a Dementia Friendly Home

To assist with memory challenges, place pictures or signs on cupboards and drawers to indicate their contents. For frequently used items like keys, wallets, or phones, keep them in a noticeable location, such as a sideboard near the front door.

6. Eliminate Clutter

Untidiness can cause confusion and distraction, especially for individuals with Dementia. Ensure a Dementia-friendly environment by removing excess clutter and maintaining tidy cupboards and drawers. Turn off the TV or radio when not in use to reduce confusion and distractions.

7. Consider Home Adaptations

Simple home adaptations can make a significant difference in creating a Dementia-friendly environment. Installing grab rails can prevent falls, while smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors contribute to your loved one’s safety. Consider using sensors to detect running water or extreme temperature changes.

How a Live-In Carer Can Help with Dementia Care

Receiving a Dementia diagnosis can be challenging, and adjusting to living with Dementia at home requires proper support. At IP Homecare, we understand the importance of finding the right Dementia care services to cater to your individual needs. Our home care plans are tailored to provide support, ensuring the comfort and well-being of your loved one.

To explore Dementia live-in care options, reach out to our friendly team today.

Read more about Live in Care for Dementia.

For more advice and support contact Dementia UK, a charity that can help you with a loved one.