According to Addie M. Abushousheh, a gerontologist, researcher, and consultant for organizational and environmental development in long-term care, as people age they become more dependent on their environment to compensate for increasing frailty and sensory loss. For people living with dementia, she says that accessing and interpreting cues in the environment is essential to enable individuals to interact with their surroundings.
As a dementia caregiver, you may grapple with the challenge of honoring your loved one’s wish to remain at home while also ensuring his/her safety and well-being. Individuals may experience confusion, disorientation, and mobility difficulties as dementia progresses. Making home modifications becomes essential to reduce risks and enhance quality of life.
“Any impediment to the clarity and comprehension of cues in the environment can reduce a person’s ability to understand or to safely (and independently) navigate their environment as well as manifest and exacerbate symptoms of dementia,” says Abushousheh.
According to Abushousheh, furnishings and finishes receive a great deal of attention, but it is often the “taken-for-granted,” environmental, ambient conditions that significantly affect the health, quality of life, and functional abilities of older adults, especially those with dementia. This includes, but is not exclusive to: temperature, light, and sound.
There are some key areas to focus on when adapting a home for dementia care. Many of these listed modifications can be implemented cost effectively and enable a person with dementia to stay at home longer.
1. Improve Lighting and Visibility
Proper lighting can help reduce confusion and prevent falls. Consider the following improvements listed below.
- Increase natural light during the day by opening curtains and using sheer window coverings.
- Install bright, non-glare lighting in hallways, staircases, and frequently-used rooms.
- Use motion-activated nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms to assist with nighttime navigation.
2. Ensure Safe Flooring to Avoid Falls with Dementia
Falls are a major risk for people with dementia. Flooring adjustments can make a big difference.
- Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
- Avoid shiny or reflective floors that may be perceived as wet or uneven.
- Use contrasting colors to define steps and doorways, making them easier to recognize.
3. Simplify Navigation with Clear Signage
Confusion with orientation is common in dementia. These adjustments listed can help with navigation.
- Label important rooms (e.g., “Bathroom,” “Kitchen”) with large, bold signs.
- Use pictures alongside words for better recognition.
- Keep pathways clear and uncluttered to reduce obstacles.
4. Enhance Bathroom Safety
The bathroom is a high-risk area for falls. Modifications can include:
- Installing grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower.
- Using a raised toilet seat for easier access.
- Placing non-slip mats in the bathtub and on the floor.
5. Secure Hazardous Areas
To prevent accidents, certain areas should be made inaccessible:
- Lock cabinets containing cleaning supplies, medications, and sharp objects.
- Secure doors leading to basements, garages, or outdoor spaces that pose risks.
- Use stove knob covers or an automatic shut-off system for kitchen appliances.
6. Create a Comfortable and Familiar Environment for Dementia
Maintaining a sense of familiarity and comfort can ease anxiety and agitation:
- Arrange furniture in a way that is consistent and avoids unnecessary changes.
- Incorporate familiar objects, such as family photos and cherished decorations.
- Use soft, calming colors on walls and furniture to create a soothing atmosphere.
“People with poor physical and cognitive functioning are particularly vulnerable to their immediate acoustic environment. Sensory overload at the same time as hearing (e.g., sight, touch, smell & taste) can bring about dramatic, unanticipated and, seemingly, uncontrollable behavioral changes,” says Abushousheh.
7. Implement Smart Technology for Safety at Home with Dementia
Technology can offer peace of mind for caregivers and enhance safety:
- Install door alarms to prevent wandering.
- Use a home monitoring system to check on your loved one remotely.
- Provide a GPS tracking device for individuals prone to wandering outside.
Adapting a home for dementia care can significantly improve safety, reduce stress, and enhance the well-being of both individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Small changes can make a big impact, creating a supportive and comfortable environment that fosters independence while minimizing risks.
By taking proactive steps to modify the home, caregivers can provide a safer, more structured living space that allows their loved ones to navigate daily life with greater ease and confidence.
Sources:
Dementia Environments Assessment Report by Addie M. Abushousheh
