Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home: 10 Ways to Stay Independent and Safe
For someone living with dementia, a thoughtfully adapted home environment can preserve independence and maintain quality of life. These practical modifications help create a space where you can feel secure, oriented, and able to continue daily activities with confidence.
Optimize Your Lighting
Natural Light
Ensure windows are unobstructed to maximize daylight. Good lighting helps with visibility and orientation, reducing confusion about surroundings.
Nighttime Darkness
Make bedrooms sufficiently dark at night with blackout curtains or shades. This supports healthy sleep patterns, which can reduce daytime confusion.
Create Safe Flooring
Remove Trip Hazards
Eliminate rugs, mats, and loose cables that could cause falls. Keep pathways clear and unobstructed throughout your home.
Choose Appropriate Materials
Use plain, matte flooring that doesn't reflect light. Avoid shiny surfaces that might appear wet or slippery.
Consider Color Contrast
Ensure flooring is a different color from walls to clearly define the walking surface. Avoid patterns that can cause visual confusion.
Make Eating and Drinking Easier
Color Contrast Tableware
Use bright plates that contrast with food
Specialized Drinkware
Consider cups with lids or handles
Clear Food Storage
Use transparent containers to see contents
Maintaining good nutrition is essential for overall health and cognitive function. Simple changes to tableware and food storage can make mealtimes less frustrating and more enjoyable, encouraging better eating habits.
Use Visual Cues and Reminders
Label Cabinets and Drawers
Attach pictures or simple word labels to show what's inside each storage space. This reduces frustration when looking for items.
Create Designated Spots
Establish consistent places for important items like keys, wallets, and phones. Consider using brightly colored trays or hooks.
Install Signage
Place clear signs on bathroom and bedroom doors to assist with navigation around the home.
Simplify Your Bathroom
Clear Signage
Label the bathroom door with both words and a picture. Consider removing toilet lids if they make identification difficult.
Color Contrast
Use towels and toilet paper that stand out against wall colors. This makes essential items easier to locate quickly.
Reduce Clutter
Store away items not used daily. Keep counters clear with only essential toiletries visible.
Keep Your Home Organized and Safe
50%
Reduction in falls with proper safety equipment
30%
Less confusion with reduced clutter
24/7
Protection with proper alarms and sensors
Stay Active and Connected to the Outdoors
Track Your Days
Use large-faced clocks and calendars to maintain awareness of time and scheduled activities.
Write Reminders
Consider a whiteboard for daily notes and to-do lists that help maintain routines.
Enjoy Your Garden
Create safe outdoor spaces with seating areas for rest. Clearly mark your front door to make it easily identifiable.
Get Outside
Regular outdoor time improves mood, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing. Even brief exposure to nature has cognitive benefits.