Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home: A Guide for Families

A dementia diagnosis is a life-altering moment, not just for the individual but for their families as well. Among the crucial decisions to be made early on is whether the person should continue living at home or move to an assisted aged care home. It's a decision that carries profound weight, as it directly impacts the quality of life for those living with dementia. Ultimately, the choice between home care and residential aged care is deeply personal and dependent on individual circumstances.

For many, the desire to remain at home is a powerful one. There are compelling arguments for choosing home care, particularly when it comes to dementia. People with dementia tend to thrive in familiar surroundings, surrounded by photos, personal items, and cherished memories. This familiarity can reduce anxiety and confusion while enhancing their safety and comfort.

Living at home and receiving care there can help maintain a sense of independence for those with dementia. In their own homes, many individuals can continue making choices for themselves and retain a sense of control over their daily lives. Creating routines in a familiar environment like home is critical in reducing stress, anxiety, and confusion.

To ensure that individuals with dementia can live at home for as long as possible, it's essential to make some well-thought-out modifications to their living spaces. These changes aim to enhance safety, security, and control. As Kate, AccessCare's Community Nursing Team Leader, advises, it's vital to tailor these adjustments to the individual's needs and stay vigilant for any changing requirements.

Here's an overview of some simple yet effective modifications to create a dementia-friendly home:

Improve Lighting

Enhancing lighting throughout the house is crucial. Replacing standard light bulbs with brighter ones and incorporating sensor lighting in places like the bathroom can reduce the risk of falls, especially at night. Maximizing natural light by creating well-lit reading nooks and keeping curtains and blinds open is also important. Additional table and reading lamps can be beneficial, but be mindful of cord placement to prevent tripping hazards.

Add Useful Contrasts

To aid navigation, consider painting doors, handles, and door frames in contrasting colours. Steer clear of dark or patterned colours and opt for warmer, plain tones for furniture, walls, and floors. In the bathroom, use contrasting colours for grab rails, towel racks, and toilet seats. Replacing light switches with larger, easily located alternatives can also be helpful. Ensure that taps are clearly marked as 'Hot' or 'Cold.'

Upgrade Clocks and Calendars

Large clocks displaying the time, day, date, and whether it's day or night can help individuals with dementia keep track of time. Large print calendars and whiteboards with written reminders are also valuable tools.

Use Medication Administration Aids

Medication administration aids, such as Webster-paks, make it easier for individuals with dementia to manage their medications effectively.

Display Personal Items

Displaying photos and cherished personal belongings not only makes the place feel more familiar but also triggers reminiscence and positive memories, reducing anxiety.

In the journey of dementia, the path may not always be clear, but with the right modifications and support from home care providers like AccessCare, individuals with dementia can continue to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.