Here are some tips related to lighting:

• Individuals with dementia require more light than younger persons.
• Be aware of shadows on tables and on the floor and make sure lighting is sufficient enough to minimize shadows.
• Control glare by avoiding fixtures with exposed light bulbs. Choose white light LED or florescent bulbs with shades.
• Use shades or sheers on windows that can be adjusted to minimize glare from the sun as needed. Curtains may also be needed in the evenings to cover windows and prevent images of people inside the home from reflecting in the windows.
• Install one or two light sensitive night lights in the bathroom to improve safety and visibility.
• Click here to learn more information about lighting and dementia

Individuals with dementia have a decreased ability to see contrast.  Contrast can be used to help people with dementia to identify key features and rooms and to facilitate independent living, for example, by supporting people to find their way.

Try these tips:

• Use colored toilet seats that contrast with the toilet and with other nearby surfaces can help make these more visible and identifiable.
• Try changing the switch plate covers to a bright color that stands out from the wall so it is easier to find the light switch
• Use a place mat that contrasts from the plate and the table.
• Replace clear or white plates and mugs with brightly colored ones.
• Edge steps with contrasting tape or paint to improve safety by helping to visually reinforce the change from flat surfaces to steps.

A cue is a signal, statement or action that tells someone that they should do something. For example, a table that is set with a placemat, utensils and a napkin is a cue that a meal will be served. A sign with a picture of a toilet is a cue for the location of a bathroom.  Cues can also be simple instructions that explain how to do something.  By placing them near where a person completes a certain task, they can help a person to be more independent by reminding them of the steps.

Placing certain cues in the home can have a big impact on someone with dementia. Creating a memory center in the home can create a sense of security and reduce anxiety because the person knows just where to look for important information. This will help decrease repetitive question asking, as well as allow the person to have a sense of control over his or her own life. A memory center uses cues such as pictures, words, or auditory reminders to compensate for memory loss and lets the person focus on what he or she can do, rather than calling attention to what they can’t do.

Click here for more information on how to create a memory center in your home.

Being in an environment with a lot of people, stuff and/or noise can be very overwhelming.

• Try to only put out items that the person will be using, such as the toothbrush and toothpaste on one side of the sink and soap on the other, rather than leaving a toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, cup, soap and makeup out on the bathroom countertop.
• Declutter the home from extra objects such as clothing, too many knick-knacks, newspapers and magazines. Click here for more information about when clutter impacts people with dementia.

Family gatherings may also become a challenge due to the amount of people, noise and movement in the room.  Consider having a “tranquil area” set up so that the person with dementia can visit with people in a smaller and more quiet setting throughout the event.