The home can provide familiarity and reassurance for someone living with dementia, but changes in memory, perception and mobility can make everyday surroundings harder to navigate safely.
People living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment are more than twice as likely to fall – and nearly four times as likely to experience recurrent falls – compared with people of the same age without cognitive impairment. Small, thoughtful adjustments can therefore help support safety and independence at home.
It is usually better to introduce changes gradually rather than alter several rooms at once. Familiar objects, routines and layouts can remain important, so any changes should reflect the person’s individual needs.
Improve lighting
Good lighting can make rooms, furniture and changes in floor level easier to see. Make the most of natural daylight by opening curtains and removing anything that unnecessarily blocks windows.
Pay particular attention to stairs, hallways, bathrooms and the route between the bedroom and toilet. Easy-to-reach switches, night lights or motion-activated lighting may help after dark.
Try to reduce glare, reflections and strong shadows, as these can make surfaces harder to interpret.
Reduce excess noise
Background noise can make it more difficult to concentrate, follow conversation or understand what is happening. Turn off televisions or radios when nobody is listening to them, particularly during meals or personal care.
Soft furnishings such as carpets, curtains and cushions may help absorb echoes and other household sounds.
Regular hearing checks are also important, as hearing difficulties can add to confusion and make communication more tiring.
Make flooring safer
Keep regular walking routes clear of clutter, trailing cables and unnecessary furniture. Frequently used belongings should be easy to reach without stretching or climbing.
Loose rugs and mats can create trip hazards and may also be misinterpreted as objects or changes in floor level. Removing or securing them can make walkways easier to navigate.
Shiny or reflective flooring may appear wet, while bold patterns can be confusing. Plain, matt flooring is generally easier to interpret.
Use colour and contrast carefully
Colour contrast can make important objects easier to identify. A toilet seat that stands out from its surroundings, a clearly visible handrail or crockery that contrasts with the table may all help.
Use stronger contrast to highlight useful features, such as doors, furniture edges and bathroom fittings.
Avoid bold patterns, stripes and sudden colour changes across floors, as these may be confusing or appear like obstacles.
Check mirrors and reflections
Some people living with dementia may not recognise their reflection and could believe another person is in the room.
Notice whether mirrors, dark windows or reflective cupboard doors cause anxiety or confusion. Covering or removing a particular mirror may help.
Closing curtains after dark can also reduce reflections in windows. There is no need to remove every mirror unless it is causing concern.
Use clear labels and signs
Simple signs can help someone find important rooms or remember everyday tasks. A clear toilet sign, a photograph on a cupboard or a reminder near the front door may be useful.
Signs should use clear words, recognisable pictures and strong contrast against the background. They should also be placed where the person naturally looks.
Avoid adding too many labels at once, as excessive visual information can create more confusion.
Make the entrance easy to recognise and access
Keep the outside of the home as familiar as possible, as significant changes to the front door, garden or surrounding features may make the property harder to recognise.
Consider adding a large, clearly visible house number or a familiar object near the entrance. This can help the person identify their home more easily.
Good lighting, secure handrails and a safely fitted key safe may also make the entrance easier to use and allow trusted people to gain access when needed.
Consider dementia-friendly household items
Some household products are designed to make daily routines easier. These can include large-display clocks, simple telephones, reminder devices and remote controls with larger buttons.
The most helpful products are usually those that solve a specific difficulty and are simple for the person to use.
Technology should support independence rather than become another source of frustration, so introduce one change at a time where possible.
Make outdoor spaces safer
Gardens and outdoor areas can provide fresh air, movement and familiar activities. Paths should be level, well-maintained and clear of trip hazards.
Secure boundaries, handrails and well-positioned seating may help the person use the space more confidently.
Good lighting near doors and pathways can also make entrances easier to recognise as daylight fades.
How can live-in care help?
A live-in carer can support safer daily routines while helping the person remain in familiar surroundings.
Depending on the agreed care plan, this may include:
- Keeping walkways clear
- Supporting mobility
- Preparing meals
- Accompanying the person outdoors
- Making sure glasses and walking aids are within reach
A regular carer may also notice changes in confidence, balance or behaviour and share concerns with the family or appropriate professionals.
Talk to Country Cousins about dementia care at home
Making a home safer is most effective when changes reflect the person’s routines, capabilities and preferences.
Our care team can listen to the challenges your family has noticed, explain how live-in dementia care works and discuss how support at home could help create a safer and more reassuring daily routine.
Call us in confidence on 01293 224706 or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will contact you the next day.
