Ways to Create a Dementia Friendly Home

Dementia Care Coach Corner: Written by Alisa Isumi, MPH

When you or your family member receive a dementia diagnosis or begin to notice memory changes, there are things that can be done to make the home environment more supportive. A dementia friendly home doesn’t necessarily require renovations or new products. The suggestions below offer some practical tips to ensure the home is safe, comfortable, and has the appropriate level of support for the person experiencing memory changes.

It is important to keep in mind that the needs of the person with dementia will change over time, so the home environment will need to be reassessed as those changes occur. Being proactive may reduce the risk of accidents or injury and ensure that the home environment is set up in a way to continue to meet the needs of the person with dementia.

When memory loss is mild, items like calendars and white boards may be helpful to follow along with the schedule for the day or to have important information handy. This is a good time to look around the home and begin the process of decluttering, simplifying, and organizing. Removing unnecessary objects can help to keep track of important items.

Safety

Safety is the most important thing to consider. Pay special attention to the kitchen, bathrooms, and garage as these areas are where medications, chemicals, power tools, and appliances are found. Limiting access to these items may prevent harmful accidents.

It is important to secure guns and weapons. Alzheimer’s San Diego can provide free gun locks if removing them from the home is an issue.

Register the person with dementia in the San Diego Sheriff’s Take Me Home program. As memory changes progress, the person may become confused by their surroundings.

Environment

Keep frequently used items accessible. This will allow the person with dementia to remain more independent.

Ensure lighting is adequate.

Consider the home’s environment. Is it overstimulating with the TV and radio on at the same time? Avoiding overstimulation will allow the person with dementia to focus on one task or activity at a time.

As vision changes occur, busy patterns on the floor may be distracting. At some point reflections in mirrors and glares may also create confusion.

Grab bars are helpful when balance changes occur.

Secure important family heirlooms and jewelry to ensure they aren’t tucked away for safe keeping and then forgotten.

Consider using signage to help the person find their way or to locate items.

Emergency planning

Vial of Life can be used to have important medical information and emergency contacts handy in the event paramedics need to respond to an incident. Download form here.

Develop an emergency plan. Having a plan will help in the event of a medical emergency with the caregiver, a natural disaster, or home maintenance issue.

Are there friends or family that live close by or a trusted neighbor that can be available to assist in the event of an emergency?

Technology

There are a variety of devices that may be helpful for reminders, finding lost items, or allowing family members to check in from afar. Products to assist with medication reminders, door alarms, air tags, and cameras are some of the options that may be utilized.

Resources

The Alzheimer’s Store

Alzheimer’s San Diego’s Home Safety Checklist

Please keep in mind that for individuals with dementia who live alone, there are additional concerns. Our team is available to discuss your situation and help you with ideas to create a dementia friendly home. Call us at 858.492.4400 to speak with one of our Dementia Care Coaches who are here to help San Diego County residents and/or those caring for someone living in San Diego County (Spanish speakers available). Also check out our free education classes, social activities, caregiver support groups, & more.