Do you have a family member of someone living with Alzheimer’s? Then you know that creating a safe, familiar home environment is crucial; supporting their independence is crucial. Let’s look at how to modify your home and environment to be more Alzheimer-friendly.
Putting yourself in their shoes means you may experience decreased balance and reaction time, visual-perceptual problems, difficulty walking, memory impairment, and decreased judgment abilities. All that comes with less insight into your environment. The key becomes: balancing Safety and Independence.
Safety, self-esteem, adaptation. Big words for average people. Use them. Was there a hobby that was pursued? For example, if someone enjoyed woodworking, they may no longer be able to use power tools but could still participate in activities like nailing, sanding, and painting in a designated workroom.
But with that, beware of High-Risk Areas!
Pay extra attention to the garage, workroom, basement, and the outdoors. Tools, equipment, or uneven surfaces there could increase the likelihood of accidents. A Home Safety Checklist can help:
- Secure locks on doors and windows
- Security system alarms to prevent wandering
- Remove tripping hazards particularly rugs and clutter
- Good lighting increases visual-perceptual abilities
- Label cabinets and drawers for easy identification
- Use safety knobs on stoves and appliances
- Grab bars in the shower and near the toilet are a must
- Non-slip mats prevent falls
- Simplify room layouts to reduce confusion
- Ensure a comfortable and accessible bed
- Store tools in a secure, organized manner
- Clearly label containers and workspaces
- Handrails on stairs and ramps are lifesavers
- Clear pathways and well-maintained landscaping feeds the brain
A dementia-friendly home prioritizes both safety and independence. You can create a home that enhances the quality of life for both the person with dementia and their caregivers, with the right amount of attention and sensibility.