One of the most impactful ways to help a loved one live well at home following a dementia diagnosis is through thoughtful environmental modifications. While it may seem counterintuitive, given that those with dementia often find comfort in familiarity, these changes are frequently welcomed when they are carefully tailored to the individual’s needs.
Adapting the environment can significantly enhance a person’s ability to navigate their home, reducing confusion and disorientation—especially when it comes to essential activities like finding the toilet. By eliminating frustration, such as the struggle to locate items in cupboards, these adjustments help preserve independence for longer. Coupled with the support of an ENA live-in dementia carer, these changes can dramatically improve quality of life, potentially preventing unnecessary hospital admissions or the need to move into a care home.
Key Environmental Modifications to Consider:
Rearrange the Layout: Ensure clear sightlines through rooms and create a logical flow throughout the home. Consider removing doors to achieve an open-plan design where possible.
Use Effective Signage: Signage featuring both images and words is crucial for maintaining independence, particularly in areas like the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Simple instructional signs, such as step-by-step guides for making tea, can be incredibly helpful. Don’t forget to mark bathroom and toilet doors clearly.
Mind the Fixtures and Fittings: Reflective surfaces like windows, mirrors, and glass doors can be confusing or distressing for someone with dementia. Flooring should be plain and consistent, avoiding mats or rugs that could be perceived as holes. Steer clear of bold patterns that might be misinterpreted.
Optimise Lighting: Maximise natural light and reduce glare. Consider installing motion-sensitive night lights to assist with nighttime navigation.
Check the Acoustics: Minimise echoes and keep TV or stereo volumes at a comfortable level to avoid startling the person.
Reconsider Colours: Differentiate bathroom and toilet doors with contrasting colours, and use coloured toilet seats (red is particularly effective) to make them easily identifiable. Contrast can also be used on light switches and dinner plates to aid visibility.
Manage Risks: Install walk-in showers, grab rails, and ramps to maintain mobility and independence while minimising fall risks. Regularly test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and consider coloured stair edging for added safety.
Leverage Technology: Specialist dementia clocks, fall detectors, and systems that monitor floods or shut off gas supplies can provide invaluable support.
Enhance Outdoor Spaces: Add handrails to garden paths, well-lit seating areas, and sensory plants to encourage outdoor enjoyment.
How Our Live-In Carers Can Assist
Our live-in dementia carers are specially trained in all aspects of dementia care. They work closely with both the individual and their family to implement home modifications that are gradually introduced to avoid overwhelming the person. After changes are made, our carers provide continuous support, ensuring the adjustments are understood and effective. Our goal is to create a safe, comfortable environment where the person can continue to enjoy their home and maintain as much independence as possible.
Discover how ENA Care Group can support you or your family by calling 01707 333700, emailing care@ena.co.uk or visiting us at ena.co.uk.
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