When faced with a diagnosis of dementia, one of the most immediate concerns people have is that confusion and memory loss will prevent them from continuing to live safely in their own home. Yet, with the right support, and some basic design and lay-out alterations, much can be done to transform the physical space in the home into an environment that is both safety conscious AND fosters independence.
Knowing where to start is probably the hardest part. When assessing your home, the 2 key questions to ask are:
What hazards exist that can easily be removed?
What adaptations can be made that will foster independence?
Using research conducted by the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling, and the national housing charity, Care & Repair England, we’ve collected together some useful suggestions for considering possible changes. We’ve arranged them under the 3 headings to get you started:
Look at each room in turn and don’t get overwhelmed – remember even 1 or 2 small changes can have a significant impact.
Colour coding important equipment such as grab rails, toothbrush, and even soap can help as a memory aid, and grab rails and a toilet riser can provide physical support. Many older people find using a bath difficult so it is worth considering fitting a level access shower or wet room. Getting this done as early as possible enables you to learn how to use it, helping maintain independence as long as possible, and then makes it easier for carers later on. Sensors can be fitted to the skirting boards so that if the taps are left running and cause a flood, the system will shut off the water and raise the alarm. Specially designed plugs are also available that drain water should a tap be left running.
Useful sources of information on the latest aids available, which can be accessed by clicking in the link below, are:
The Disabled Living Foundation’s website www.asksara.dlf.org.uk
Assist UK www.assist-uk.org
1. Fit a KeySafe
A KeySafe is a small secure box fitted to the outside of the house in which you can keep a spare door key. The lock is activated by a 4 digit code. This can be useful if you go out and then realise you’ve forgotten your door key. Write down the number code and keep it in your purse or wallet so you’ve got it to refer to, and make sure someone nearby knows the code as well (perhaps a trusted neighbour or close friend you could ring should the need arise).
2. Consider external door sensors and reminder messages
Pressure pads can be fitted under the door mat, or on the bottom of the door itself, that can sound an alarm (to you, or via a telephone line to a nominated person or call centre) if the door is left open or play a pre-recorded and personalised message, reminding you to pick up your keys, put on a coat, remember your mobile phone, lock up etc.. as you go out. AT Dementia’s website shows some of the assistive technologies available and is recommended by the Alzheimer’s Society as a useful source of information – www.atdementia.org.uk
3. Carry a mobile phone or a tracking device
Having a simple mobile phone with a loved one’s phone number stored in it and easily accessible, can provide valuable reassurance, as can having location finder technology built into either your phone or a separate tracking device. This enables your location to be tracked on a computer or mobile phone by a friend or relative if you were expected home but appear to have gone missing. Most devices also have a panic button built-in should you become lost or disorientated.
4. Wear Identification
Some people carry an identification card containing details of their own name and address, and the phone number of someone who could be contacted should it become necessary. This information can also be contained in a wristband that can be worn all the time, alleviating worries about forgetting to take it with you. The Alzheimer’s Association recommend MedicAlert who provide an identification systems for adults where jewellery is engraved with details of the person’s condition, an ID number and a 24 hour emergency phone number – www.medicalert.org.uk
5. Use familiar local landmarks
Many people with dementia find that their recognition for familiar landmarks in the locality helps them find their way home safely. Following a familiar route that contains landmarks triggers deep memory. It may be helpful to photograph these landmarks then use these make a simple picture map tracing the route back from a place you visit often. The map reminding you of your way back from the local shop, may, for instance show photos of the hairdressers, followed by the café, the war memorial, then the street sign at the end of the road.
Getting out and about in the local area are important factors in maintaining a sense of purpose and wellbeing. Adopting these precautions will hopefully ease your own concerns, help reassure carers, and most importantly prolong independence for as long as possible.