Making a home dementia-friendly
The way a home is set up can make a big difference to someone living with dementia. Memory loss and confusion can make it harder to find things or remember how they work. Small changes, made gradually rather than all at once, can help them stay independent for longer.
Good light
Better lighting helps avoid confusion and reduces the risk of falls, for older people in general as well as people with dementia. Aim for bright, even light with as little glare and shadow as possible:
- keep curtains open in the day, and clear anything blocking the windows, such as heavy nets
- make sure the stairs and the toilet are well lit
- put light switches where they're easy to reach, and think about lights with automatic sensors
- make sure the bedroom can be dark at night, to help with sleep
Colour and contrast
Dementia can make it harder to tell colours apart. Strong contrast helps things stand out:
- walls and floors in contrasting colours
- furniture in bold colours that stand out from the walls and floor
- doors and banisters in a contrasting colour
- a toilet seat in a different colour from the rest of the bathroom
- plates and cups that contrast with the table or tablecloth, so the edges are easy to see
- a brightly painted front door with a large, clear house number
Avoid bold patterns and stripes, which can be confusing.
Safer floors
Rugs and mats can look like something to step over, and cause trips. Shiny floors can look wet. Matt flooring in a colour that contrasts with the walls is best, and it may help to avoid green or blue, which can be mistaken for grass or water.
Labels, signs and reminders
- labels or signs on cupboards and doors, such as a toilet sign on the bathroom door
- photos on cupboards showing what's inside, such as a picture of cups
- notes in key places, such as “check for your keys” by the front door
- a whiteboard listing the day's tasks
Signs work best with clear words and a picture, in colours that contrast with the background, and placed a little lower than usual, as older people tend to look down.
Helpful gadgets
- clocks with a large display showing the day, date and time
- phones and remote controls with big buttons
- reminder devices that give a spoken prompt to take medicines or lock the door
- a key safe, so family, carers or the emergency services can get in if needed
Some people prefer the traditional taps and fittings they've always known, so new isn't always better. There are more ideas in our guide to everyday aids and gadgets.
Mirrors, noise and the garden
Mirrors and dark windows can be upsetting if someone doesn't recognise their own reflection. Cover mirrors if needed, and close the curtains in the evening.
Carpets, cushions and curtains soak up background noise, and it helps to turn off the TV or radio when nobody's watching.
Outside, flat paths, handrails, a secure garden, raised beds and sheltered seating help people enjoy fresh air safely.
Check sight and hearing
Regular eye tests and hearing checks matter, because problems with sight and hearing can make dementia symptoms worse. See our guides to sight loss and hearing loss.
A care needs assessment can lead to free equipment and adaptations. See also help at home and living with dementia.