How to Create a Dementia Friendly Environment for Your Loved One

Dementia is a challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it doesn't just impact those diagnosed it – it affects their entire support network. It may change their relationships with loved ones. Even if your loved one is ageing in place, the environment they have lived in for years can become challenging to navigate. An individual with dementia goes through various life changes, affecting several senses that hinder their ability to live independently.

But here's the good news: by making some thoughtful changes and adjustments, you can help create a dementia friendly environment for your loved ones. At our Sagecare dementia care facility, we aim to educate families and caregivers to empower them with the information they need to create a safe environment for dementia patients.

Use this guide as a dementia friendly environment checklist and create a comfortable environment where your loved one can age in place seamlessly.

Clear Signage and Color Coding

Imagine waking up in an unfamiliar place and struggling to find your way around. For someone with dementia, this is a daily reality, especially if they live in a memory care home.

To ease confusion due to dementia and change of environment, use clear signage and colour coding throughout the home or facility. Doors, rooms, and common areas should be labelled with large, easy-to-read signs. Color-coded signs can help residents identify different regions, making navigation more straightforward.

Sensory Stimulation

Sensory stimulation is a powerful tool for engaging individuals with dementia when creating a dementia friendly environment. Incorporate a variety of sensory experiences into your environment. Soft music, textured materials, fragrant flowers, and visually appealing artwork can all create a stimulating yet calming atmosphere. Sensory gardens with different plants and textures can provide a soothing outdoor experience.

Familiarity and Personalization

When caring for loved ones with dementia, you will find that familiarity is key for individuals with dementia. If your loved one is moving into a different home than they lived in before or a memory care residence like Sagecare, encourage them to bring personal items like photos, mementos, or familiar furniture from home to create a sense of comfort and continuity.

Creating a dementia friendly environment through familiarity and personalization can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Moreover, decorating shared spaces with familiar objects can spark conversations and reminisce among residents.

Safety First

Safety should be a top priority when creating a safe environment for dementia patients, as seniors with dementia tend to fall for various reasons. Some common causes of falls in people with dementia include lack of physical exercise, memory impairment, and weakness. This can be prevalent when an individual deals with dementia and changes in the environment and becomes more unfamiliar with the space.

Minimize hazards by removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs and wires. Install handrails in hallways and bathrooms to prevent falls. Secure cabinets containing cleaning supplies or medications to prevent accidental ingestion.

At Sagecare, our staff are always alert, and we have created a safe environment where the employees will be aware if a resident attempts to wander.

Consistent Routine and Structure

Establishing a predictable daily routine can provide comfort and a sense of security for dementia patients, so it should be one of the priorities in your dementia environment checklist. At Sagecare, some of our key strategies for dementia care involve regular meal times, exercise, and recreational activities that can help residents feel more in control of their surroundings. Our experienced staff communicates clearly and consistently to keep residents informed about daily activities, ensuring a positive experience while creating a dementia friendly environment.

It's important to remember that flexibility within structure is vital when caring for individuals with dementia. While routine is essential, be prepared for resident needs and behaviour variations. Some days may require extra patience and understanding, as residents might not always adhere to the routine. Flexibility in adapting to their unique needs ensures that they feel supported and valued as individuals, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and effective care environment.

Calm and Quiet Spaces

Dementia patients often become agitated or overwhelmed by noise and chaos. When creating a dementia friendly environment, establish designated quiet areas where residents can retreat when they need peace and solitude. These spaces should be well-lit but free from loud noises and distractions. Soft chairs, soothing colours, and calming artwork can enhance the ambiance of these areas.

Adequate Lighting

Another essential thing to add to your dementia environment checklist is adequate lighting.

Proper lighting can significantly impact a dementia-friendly environment. Well-lit spaces reduce confusion and enhance visibility. Ensure rooms are well-lit, especially in the evening when shadows can create illusions and disorientation. Use natural light whenever possible and avoid harsh, glaring lights.

Encourage Independence

A dementia friendly environment should support seniors' independence to the extent possible. Label drawers and cupboards with pictures or words to help residents find their belongings. Allow them to participate in daily tasks such as setting the table or folding laundry, which can support the ageing in place process while boosting their self-esteem and maintaining skills.

In addition to empowering residents with opportunities for daily tasks, fostering a sense of choice and autonomy in their lives is essential. Allow them to make decisions whenever possible, even if they seem small, like choosing what to wear or which activity to participate in. These choices can provide a sense of control and individuality that's incredibly valuable. By respecting their preferences and supporting their independence, you help maintain their dignity and self-esteem, enhancing their overall quality of life in the memory care home.

Foster a Sense of Community

A strong sense of community can make all the difference when creating a dementia friendly environment. Encourage social interactions among your loved ones through group activities, shared dining experiences, and communal spaces. Organize regular family visits and events to maintain connections with loved ones.

Conclusion: A Caring Home for Seniors with Dementia

Creating a dementia friendly environment in a personal residence or memory care home requires thoughtful planning and a commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors. By following these tips, creating a dementia friendly environment checklist, and prioritizing the needs of individuals with dementia, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment.

Individuals with dementia are individuals with unique preferences and histories. The ability to be flexible and adaptable plays a crucial role in customizing the environment to suit their requirements. By adopting the appropriate approach and having a team that embodies compassion, you can establish a residence that genuinely nurtures individuals with dementia, affording them the dignity and respect they rightfully deserve.

Tips for Creating a Dementia Friendly Environment