Family Caregiver’s Blueprint for Dementia-Friendly Design for Life at Home: Empowering Families with Practical Tips for Safety, Independence and Joy

About the Author: Sherri Snelling is a leading gerontologist, author, and expert in aging and caregiving. She is dedicated to educating and empowering families on promoting dignity, purpose, and well-being for older adults. 

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are a growing concern for many families which is why it is important to be well-informed and well-prepared to support a loved one. Nearly 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's, the most prevalent type of dementia representing 70% of all dementia diagnoses, according to the Alzheimer's Association. In addition, these adults are being cared for by 11 million family members, and by 2050 Alzheimer’s is expected to nearly double, reaching approximately 13 million. A dementia diagnosis is a diagnosis for the whole family. 

While an Alzheimer's or related dementia diagnosis can be daunting, it is important to help an AD adult maintain a healthy and fulfilling life in the comfort of their own home. Research suggests that staying at home as long as possible is linked to a better quality of life for those with dementia and Alzheimer's.¹

Dementia family caregivers – whether an adult child, spouse or other family member – can find their caregiving role challenging but also rewarding.  

Following are some tips and guidance to help make it easier to provide care at home for a parent, spouse, or grandparent with Alzheimer's, while also finding moments of connection and joy.

Creating a Safe and Comforting Home Environment

Issues related to Alzheimer's and dementia can impact an individual's ability to keep themselves safe. To make the home a safer and more comforting place, consider the following steps: 

• Secure hazardous areas: Lock garages, basements, and sheds, especially where hazardous materials or tools are located, since 60% of AD adults wander and may be in danger of falls or other health risks.
• Enhance lighting: Keep walkways and rooms well-lit as a person with Alzheimer’s may have impairment of their visual field and their pupils often adjust more slowly to both bright and low light so maintaining good lighting throughout the home is essential.
• Minimize tripping hazards: People with AD have impaired balance so remove clutter and obstacles to create a clear path for movement and reduce the risk of falls
• Install handrails: Consider adding handrails or chair rails in hallways to assist with balance, as Alzheimer's can affect motor skills.

Establishing Routines for Familiarity and Independence

Maintaining routines and schedules can help reinforce a loved one’s sense of familiarity, of control and independence while also reducing anxiety. A consistent routine actually uses rote memory rather than working memory and is easier for AD adults to maintain in the early and mid stages of the disease. Routines not only benefit the individual with Alzheimer's but also makes it easier for caregivers to plan their day and manage caregiving responsibilities.

Fostering Joyful Moments Through Creative Activities

Engaging in everyday positive moments through creative activities and social events can significantly enhance the quality of life and overall health for individuals with Alzheimer's. Activities that keep older adults engaged include:

• Memory-related activities: Take a trip down memory lane by looking at old photos, taking a joyride to familiar places in your loved one’s past or just reminiscing about past experiences.
• Sensory engagement: Stimulate the senses with their favorite music or the aromas of beloved foods, which are two powerful ways to spark positive memories. Music memory is the longest memory kept within an Alzheimer’s brain.
• Art projects: Simple art projects can keep their hands and minds busy, fostering creativity and relaxation. Keep in mind the sense of touch – tactile projects with different types of touch sensations are very engaging for someone with AD.
• Physical activity: Encourage physical activity, such as walking, to help maintain a regular sleep schedule and promote overall well-being. Studies have found walking in nature is more beneficial than walking inside for everyone including those with dementia.²

The Role of Professional Caregivers

Professional caregivers can play a crucial role in creating a personalized care plan that allows your loved one to experience greater well-being through positive moments, meaningful connections, and a more purposeful life. This is especially valuable in the familiar environment of home, where comfort and security are paramount. They also can provide important respite breaks for family caregivers who find dementia caregiving can take an emotional and physical toll.

Connecting with an in-home caregiver network, like Comfort Keepers, can provide the specialized care needed for seniors with dementia. Comfort Keepers offers highly trained caregivers who are equipped to help older adults stay engaged physically, mentally, and emotionally while living independently at home. 

References

¹ Leverton, M., & Pui Kin Kor, P. (2023). Supporting people with dementia to live at home. BMC geriatrics, 23(1),681. Retrieved from: https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-023-04389-w  

² Boere, K., Lloyd, K., Binsted, G., & Krigolson, O. E. (2023). Exercising is good for the brain but exercising outside is 

potentially better. Nature scientific reports, 13(1), 1-8. Retrieved from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-26093-2