How to help people live independently with dementia

Making the outside of the home safe and recognisable

Helping a person recognise their home easily can reduce confusion and anxiety.

You may find it helpful to:

• avoid making major changes to the exterior of the home, such as changing the door colour or removing familiar trees or shrubs
• ensure the door number is large and clearly visible
• place a recognisable item outside the home, such as a distinctive garden ornament

Additional safety measures could include:

• installing a sturdy handrail on steps or converting them to a ramp
• ensuring the entrance area is well lit. Motion sensor lights can be particularly helpful
• installing a camera doorbell so family members can see who is arriving
• fitting a key safe so trusted relatives, carers or emergency services can gain access if needed
• placing a sticker on the door or letterbox requesting no cold callers or junk mail, or displaying a Neighbourhood Watch sticker

Making the hallway safe and easy to navigate

• keep the hallway uncluttered so it is easy to move through
• place an easy to read clock near the door showing the time, day and date
• keep keys in a consistent place, such as a hook on the wall, but ensure they cannot be seen from outside
• secure or remove loose mats and runners to reduce the risk of trips or falls
• consider fitting a door alarm if there is a risk the person may leave home alone when it may not be safe to do so

Making the kitchen safer

The kitchen can be a confusing and potentially risky environment, so small changes can make it easier to manage.

You might consider:

• keeping frequently used items such as mugs, tea, coffee and spoons within easy reach
• placing clear labels or pictures on cupboard doors if clear doors are not possible
• clearly labelling hot and cold taps
• regularly checking the fridge and cupboards for out of date food
• placing simple written instructions next to appliances such as the microwave or washing machine
• replacing broken appliances with similar models so they remain familiar

Assistive living products such as kettle tippers, jar openers and easy grip utensils can also help maintain independence.

Making the living room comfortable

The living room should feel relaxed and familiar.

Helpful adjustments may include:

• ensuring furniture is supportive and comfortable
• displaying labelled family photographs to support memory and connection
• keeping frequently used items such as glasses, phones or remote controls in a consistent place
• using simplified remote controls with large buttons if operating the television becomes difficult
• using smart devices such as Alexa, Google or Siri to play music, give reminders or control lighting

Portable heaters or electric fires may present trip hazards, so it is usually safest not to use them. Central heating should be set at a comfortable temperature, typically around 18 to 21°C.

Making the bedroom calm and safe

• keep the bedroom uncluttered to reduce the risk of falls
• consider using bed sensors to alert carers if the person gets up at night
• use waterproof mattress covers if continence is a concern
• choose bedding that is appropriate for the season to avoid overheating or feeling cold
• install a night light or simple bedside lamp that is easy to switch on
• place an easy to read clock by the bed
• lay out clothes ready for the next day to reduce confusion
• store seasonal clothing separately so appropriate clothes are easier to choose

Making the bathroom safer

To improve safety and visibility:

• place a clear sign or picture of a toilet on the bathroom door
• leave the bathroom light on at night so it is easy to find
• choose a toilet seat that contrasts in colour with the toilet so it is easier to see
• remove bathmats or toilet mats that could create a trip hazard
• use brightly coloured towels and toilet paper that contrast with walls and floors
• install grab rails near the bath, shower and toilet
• consider a bath or shower seat if balance is a concern
• use flood and scald prevention plugs in sinks and baths

These small adjustments can help a person with dementia continue living comfortably and safely in their own home for as long as possible.