Have you noticed a family member struggling to interact with their surroundings like they used to? Dementia impacts cognitive abilities, making it harder to fulfil tasks like washing, cleaning, and shopping. As symptoms develop, it may be difficult for them to live independently, or they may find it hard to live independently due to feeling uncomfortable.
You don’t need to be an interior designer to make meaningful changes in their home. Just a few small and thoughtful adjustments can have a profound impact. Learn how to build a functional space for independence gradually, with practical considerations to transform their home into a dementia-friendly space, while Sova Healthcare carers are there to provide specialist care every step of the way.
Benefits of a calming environment for people living with dementia
Empowering someone with dementia to retain as much independence as possible is vital for their self-esteem and confidence. This can be achieved by gradually adapting their home to meet evolving needs – it’s not something that happens overnight. At Sova Healthcare, our carers do more than provide personal care. They are also trained to spot opportunities for small changes that can lead to big improvements in daily living. From optimising room layouts to suggesting helpful adaptive equipment, we work with you to create a warm and welcoming space for your loved one.
How to decorate a home for someone with dementia
Building a functional space for independence may be difficult to handle alone. This is where Sova Healthcare carers can step in. Our team can help guide you through the process, offering practical advice and hands-on support. Find out the essential parts of how to decorate a home for someone with dementia below.
1. Strengthen safety and reduce hazards
Safety is crucial. Simple modifications can prevent falls and injuries, providing peace of mind for both the individual with dementia and their family, friends, and caregivers.
- Suitable flooring: Opt for non-slip, even flooring. Avoid busy patterns that could cause visual confusion or appear as obstacles.
- Mobility improvements: Handrails or grab bars in bathrooms and stairways can help with stability.
- Reduce clutter: Ensure paths are clear of furniture or objects poking out, and rugs or mats that could be tripped over.
2. Improve navigation and minimise confusion
A confusing environment can lead to anxiety and disorientation. Clear navigation and thoughtful design can help reduce this stress and make independent living smoother.
- Lighting: Ensure consistent, bright, and glare-free lighting throughout all main rooms, especially in hallways and bathrooms. Natural light is best where possible, so consider reducing thick curtains or blinds during the day.
- Increase room flow: Minimise clutter and rearrange furniture to create unobstructed paths. This helps with spatial awareness and reduces the risk of bumping into objects.
- Labels and signs: Use clear, large-print labels with simple images on drawers, doors, and cupboards to help memory and identification. Think about devices with bigger buttons, like the TV remote and mobile phones.
- Central notification area: Add a large calendar or whiteboard in a main room, like the kitchen, to write reminders and appointments. You should also consider keeping a phonebook or main contact information next to the phone.
If you’re struggling with implementing these elements into a home, our carers provide support that extends beyond direct care. They’ll help with practical assistance with organising the home and adapting the environment. Discover how our carers can support you.
3. Create a comfortable sensory experience
Engaging the senses positively can help with well-being and spark pleasant memories.
- Art and sentiment: Avoid abstract images and instead opt to display familiar and calming artwork or photographs that hold personal significance.
- Furnishings: Choose familiar furniture that’s easy to sit on and get up from. Avoid overly soft seating that can be difficult to manage and ensure it can be routinely cleaned.
- Colour: Utilise calming and slightly contrasting colours to differentiate areas and make objects stand out. Avoid patterned wallpapers or carpets, high-contrast designs, and dark colours, and instead opt for plain with subtle patterns. Enhancing 3D perception is key to make the environment more welcoming.
- Minimise background noise: Set TVs and radios to a lower volume and add accessibility features such as subtitles. Create quiet spaces for relaxation and keep them device-free. You could also consider sound-absorbing materials where appropriate.
Ready to transform your loved one’s home into a supportive space?
Sova Healthcare’s professional and patient carers are here to nurture well-being and promote independence while offering a helping hand to both individuals with dementia and their families. If you’d like to understand more about our dementia services and how they can benefit your family, find out the essential questions for selecting the right dementia care services, or call 0800 688 8866 to speak with the Sova team.
