Movement: Incorporate gentle exercises like walking or stretching into daily routines. Ensure pathways are clear to prevent tripping hazards.
Nutrition: Serve balanced meals in a consistent, familiar place, and give the person enough time to eat. Use colorful, easy-to-handle tableware to stimulate appetite and make dining more enjoyable.
Sleep: Make sleep a priority. Dementia often affects a person’s sleeping habits. Limiting caffeine, especially at night can help. Also try to limit day time sleep and avoid screen time before bed.
Hydration: Keep water accessible and remind your loved one to drink regularly to prevent dehydration.
Promoting Mental Health and Emotional Well-being
A supportive environment can significantly impact the emotional health of someone with dementia.
Establish Routines: Consistent daily schedules for activities like bathing, dressing, and eating can reduce anxiety and confusion. Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, at the same time each day.
Personalize the Space: Display family photos, favorite artwork, or familiar objects to provide comfort and spark positive memories. Calendars, clocks, and written schedules can help your loved one know what to expect next.
Reduce Noise and Distractions: Limit background noise from TVs or radios, especially during meals or activities. Too much noise can cause anxiety or confusion.
Encourage Social Interaction: Encourage socialization through visits with family and friends or participation in community activities.
Provide Mental Stimulation: Engage in activities that stimulate the mind, such as reading, puzzles, or listening to music. Tailor activities to the individual’s interests and abilities to avoid frustration. To see a few of our favorite activity ideas that make a great gift for someone living with dementia, click here.
Engaging in Simple Activities
Staying active is important for those living with dementia. Encouraging your loved one to participate in simple household tasks can provide a sense of purpose and help maintain motor skills. Creative interests and past hobbies can also provide opportunities. (ALZ.org)
Choose simple, meaningful activities that match your loved one’s interests and abilities:
Household Tasks: Folding laundry, setting the table, dusting, or watering plants can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Creative Activities: Drawing, painting, or arranging flowers can be soothing and enjoyable.
Music and Reminiscence: Listening to favorite songs or looking through photo albums can spark happy memories and conversation.
Gardening: Tending to a small garden or potted plants allows for gentle movement and connection with nature.
Sorting and Organizing: Sorting buttons, cards, or other objects by color or shape can be calming and satisfying.
Walking: Safe, supervised walks, indoors or in a secure outdoor area, support physical health and reduce restlessness.
Using Assistive Technology
Modern technology offers tools to assist caregivers and individuals with dementia:
Medication Management: Use pill organizers or automatic pill dispensers to help manage medications.
Safety Monitoring: Consider motion sensors, door alarms, or GPS tracking devices for loved ones at risk of wandering.
Adaptive Devices: Touch lamps, motion detecting lighting and faucets, and easy-to-use appliances can help your loved one maintain their independence.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure about the best modifications for your home, consult with an occupational therapist or certified aging-in-place specialist. These professionals can assess your home and recommend personalized changes to maximize safety and comfort.
Conclusion
Creating a dementia-friendly home is about more than just safety—it’s about fostering independence, dignity, and a sense of belonging. By making thoughtful changes to your loved one’s environment, establishing routines, and offering meaningful activities, you can help them live more comfortably and confidently at home.
Remember, every person with dementia is unique. Start with small changes, observe what works best, and adjust as needed. With patience and creativity, your home can become a safe and supportive place for your loved one to thrive
