Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can make even the simplest of tasks difficult. A Harvard study found that one in four American households has a member who is visually or hearing impaired, has cognitive impairment, or has mobility issues that make it difficult for them to live independently. Sadly, only about 3% of American homes have universal design features.
However, making a few minor adjustments can greatly improve daily life at home for seniors with dementia.If you can make their normal routines less taxing on their mental and physical resources, your older loved one will be in better control of their independence.
Here are five easy ways to make your home more friendly for a person with dementia.
Color-block, but go easy on the patterns
Dementia patients benefit from contrasting colors, such as a red plate on a blue placemat or a painted bathroom door. It helps them quickly locate and use these items and safely get to places.
However, if you use too many different patterns in your design, you may have the opposite impact. That can lead to visual clutter, making it more difficult to see. Overstimulation of the eyes due to an excess of patterns, especially if they clash, can also lead to agitation.
Hang up memories of good times past
Sprinkling your home with photos and other memorabilia that evoke happy times is a great way to foster a spirit of nostalgia and relaxation. Older adults with memory issues benefit greatly from reminders of happy times in their lives.
Set up sensors and alarms
Adults with dementia can become disoriented or forget what they’re supposed to be doing. As a caregiver, it is important to ensure the safety of your loved one by installing detectors for things like smoke and carbon monoxide. Nowadays, you even get dementia-friendly gadgets that monitor water usage and temperature to alert caregivers to potential dangers.
Raised and colorful bathroom seat
Try changing the toilet seat cover to something bright and eye-catching. Bathroom stalls painted white often go unnoticed since they fit nicely with the surrounding walls and flooring.
The goal is to make the toilet more noticeable so that it can be found quickly. A raised toilet seat may also be helpful for your aging loved one since it will make it easier for them to sit and stand up on their own.
Get rid of clutter
People with dementia may have trouble finding what they need in the middle of a lot of clutter. You can make it easier for your senior loved one to find what they need by clearing the clutter and highlighting the objects they use most.
Looking for memory care homes in Oklahoma?
You can’t always be there to make sure your loved one with dementia doesn’t get hurt. This is where memory care homes come in with their specialized care and helpful, trained staff. Our team at Next Level Senior Advisors can help you look through best senior living in Oklahoma. We have access to referrals so you can count on us to connect you to the ideal memory care community for your loved one.
Contact us today to learn more.
