How to Create a Safe & Supportive Home for a Loved One with Dementia

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Caring for a senior loved one with dementia requires not only emotional resilience but also a thoughtful approach to your loved one’s living environment. A safe and supportive home can significantly boost quality of life for individuals with dementia and provide peace of mind for their caregivers. By implementing certain measures, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a comforting space for your loved one.

Understand the Needs of a Person with Dementia

Every person with dementia is unique, and understanding your loved one’s specific needs is crucial in creating a protective environment. People with dementia often experience changes in memory, judgment, and physical coordination, making them more vulnerable to accidents. Consider the daily challenges your loved one might face, such as navigating stairs, remembering how to use household appliances, or finding familiar objects. By identifying these needs, you can tailor the home environment to support your loved one’s independence while ensuring safety.

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional Dementia Care. Portland families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

Simplify & Organize Living Spaces

A clutter-free and well-organized home can reduce confusion and agitation for individuals with dementia. Start by removing unnecessary items and keeping essential belongings in easily accessible places. Clearly label drawers and cabinets with both words and pictures to help your loved one locate items without frustration. Simplifying the layout of each room, especially the kitchen and bathroom, can also prevent accidents and enhance your loved one’s ability to carry out daily activities with minimal assistance.

Increase Safety in Key Areas

Certain areas of the home require special attention to prevent falls and other accidents. In the bathroom, install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower to provide support. Consider using nonslip mats and a shower chair to minimize the risk of slipping. In the kitchen, ensure sharp objects and hazardous substances are stored securely and out of reach. You may also want to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the house to alert you in case of an emergency. 

The cognitive challenges that accompany dementia often leave aging adults unable to manage everyday tasks, which puts their safety and health at risk. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Home Care Portlnad  families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Recent advancements in technology offer various tools to help caregivers monitor and support their loved ones with dementia. Consider using motion sensors and door alarms to alert you when your loved one is on the move, especially during the night. GPS tracking devices can be invaluable in case of wandering, enabling you to locate your loved one quickly and safely. Additionally, voice-activated virtual assistants can provide reminders for medications and appointments, helping you maintain a structured routine.

Encourage Familiarity & Comfort

Creating a familiar and comforting atmosphere can significantly reduce anxiety and promote a sense of security for individuals with dementia. Decorate the home with personal photographs and meaningful objects to evoke positive memories. Ensure the lighting is soft and even, as harsh lighting can cause disorientation. Playing soothing music or familiar sounds can have a calming effect and may even stimulate pleasant memories. Encourage your loved one to participate in activities he or she enjoys, such as gardening or reading, to maintain a sense of purpose and engagement.

Caring for a loved one with dementia is a challenging task for anyone. The responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming, but help is available. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Portland senior home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. Whether your loved one needs minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour care, give us a call today.