A dementia-friendly home

By putting some handy tips into practice and making a few tweaks, you can make a happier, safer home for those with dementia

■ IN THE KITCHEN “With so many different bits and bobs here, it’s important for someone with dementia to know where everything is,” says Gemma. “Visual cues are a good idea – stick pictures or labels on the outside of cupboards and drawers so they can easily tell what’s inside. Alternatively, fit cupboards with nonreflective, transparent fronts and store food in clear plastic containers. “Brightly coloured cloths, towels and kitchen rolls that are a different colour to the work surface will help them to be seen. If you have to replace appliances such as a kettle, try to buy the same model. Lock away potentially hazardous or sharp items and use socket covers.”

■ THE LIVING ROOM

“One of the biggest hazards is uneven floors and surfaces. Changes in the colour of the floor from room to room, as well as dark mats, can look like something you need to step over, while shiny floors can appear slippery to people with dementia. “Opt for plain matt flooring or carpet that contrasts with the colour of the walls. And steer away from floor colours that might be confused with other things, such as blue like water or green like grass.

“As for furniture, avoid strong patterns that may confuse, and cover up or remove mirrors and TV screens as the glare can be disorientating.” ■ STAIRS AND HALLWAY “Think about putting in grab rails if balance is a problem. You could also indicate the edge of stairs with brightly coloured tape.

“Put a clock and a calendar together in the hallway as this will help someone with dementia see the time and date as well as any appointments and events. You should also pop a few ‘In case of emergency’ numbers by the phone if they are able to use one, while a whiteboard where you can write reminders may come in handy.”

■ IN THE BEDROOM

“Many people with dementia struggle with sleep so fit blackout blinds so they know it’s still time to sleep, even if the sun has risen early in the morning. Night lights or sensors can help if they need to get up in the night, and remove moveable rugs and other trip hazards.” ■ BATHROOM “Not being able to find a loo can cause a lot of anxiety so make sure the toilet door is fixed open and labelled ‘Toilet’, with a picture of a loo so it can be easily recognised. It’s a good idea to make the toilet seat and lid a contrasting colour to the rest of the toilet, while a traditional flush will make everything less stressful.

Remove waste paper baskets that could be mistaken for a loo.

“Reduce the temperature of hot water to avoid scalds and use a flood prevention plug in the basin and bath.” ■ OUT IN THE GARDEN “We all know gardening can be therapeutic and that’s especially true for someone with dementia,” says Gemma. “Make sure they can easily see into the garden through the window, perhaps by placing a chair and table nearby, and also create somewhere nice and sheltered where they can sit and relax. “Make sure the door lock is easy to use and keys are kept somewhere easy to find but safe, and patch up uneven paving or steps they’ll have to walk on.”

■ If you are a carer of someone with dementia join the Yours Carers in Touch group for friendly and helpful support. Turn to p143 to find out more