New surroundings, people, or routines, can be difficult for someone with dementia. Here are some steps you can take to help anyone with dementia feel more comfortable in new situations and new surroundings.
New Clothing Might Agitate: Keep Them Comfortable and in Preferred Style Clothing
Clothing styles that are simple, comfortable, and easy to put on and take off are recommended for people with dementia. Some specific features to consider include:
- Velcro closures instead of buttons or zippers
- Elastic waistbands or drawstring pants
- Slip-on shoes or shoes with Velcro closures
- Avoiding clothing with small, fiddly parts like ties or belts
It’s also important to keep in mind the individual’s personal preferences and to choose colours and styles that they like and feel comfortable in. Comfort is key, as people with dementia may become agitated or distressed if they feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar with their clothing.
Redecorating? Keep Familiar Furniture: Keep their physical surroundings recognizable and safe for them
When choosing furniture for a person with dementia, safety and comfort should be the primary considerations. Some specific features to consider include:
- Sturdy and stable construction to prevent tipping or falling
- Armrests and non-slip surfaces for added safety and support
- Adjustable heights for chairs and beds to accommodate changing mobility needs
- Easy-to-grip handles on doors and drawers
- Non-toxic finishes and materials to reduce the risk of ingestion
In addition to safety and comfort, furniture should also be chosen with the person’s individual preferences and needs in mind. For example, a person who likes to read might benefit from a comfortable reading chair, while someone who likes to spend time outdoors might benefit from a sturdy outdoor rocking chair.
It’s also important to create a homelike and familiar environment, using familiar items and familiar colours and patterns to help create a sense of comfort and stability for the person with dementia.
Home Features That Can Help Keep Someone with Dementia Safe
There are several home features that can be installed to help support someone with dementia, including:
- Non-slip flooring: Installing non-slip flooring can help prevent falls and improve safety.
- Grab bars: Installing grab bars in the bathroom and other key areas can help provide support and stability.
- Stairlifts: Installing a stairlift can help someone with dementia safely navigate stairs and maintain independence.
- Illuminated light switches: Installing illuminated light switches can help a person with dementia locate them more easily.
- Large-print or digital clocks: Installing large-print or digital clocks can help a person with dementia keep track of time.
- Door alarms: Installing door alarms can help prevent wandering and ensure the safety of a person with dementia.
- Door locks: Installing locks or latches on doors can help prevent wandering and ensure the safety of a person with dementia.
It’s important to consider the individual’s abilities and limitations, as well as their home environment, when choosing and installing home features to help someone with dementia. The goal should be to create a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment that promotes independence and well-being.
Hiring External Care? How to Introduce a New Carer to Someone with Dementia
Introducing a new carer to someone with dementia can be a challenging process, but there are several steps you can take to make it as smooth as possible:
- Prepare the person with dementia: Before the introduction, explain to the person with dementia that a new carer will be joining them and provide them with some basic information about the new carer, such as their name and role.
- Make the introduction in a familiar setting: Choose a familiar setting, such as the person’s home or a community room, to make the introduction.
- Encourage the person with dementia to be involved: Ask the person with dementia if they would like to participate in the introduction, such as shaking hands or offering a smile.
- Allow the person with dementia to take the lead: Let the person with dementia take the lead in the introduction, and try to respond to their cues and actions.
- Provide a sense of comfort: Offer the person with dementia a familiar item or a snack to help provide a sense of comfort and security.
- Introduce slowly: Take your time and allow the person with dementia to get to know the new carer gradually. Start with short visits or activities and gradually increase the amount of time spent together.
- Encourage the person with dementia to share: Encourage the person with dementia to share their preferences, likes, and dislikes with the new carer.
It’s important to be patient and understanding during the introduction process, as it can take time for a person with dementia to build trust and form a relationship with a new carer. A positive and supportive introduction can help ensure a smooth transition and improve the quality of care for the person with dementia.
Every case is different, since every person’s experience with dementia is a different journey. Ideally, you need to take into account the individual’s specific needs and make changes as needed. Take it one day at a time, and don’t be discouraged!
Dementia Awareness course
In this dementia training we look at how you can support people to live well with dementia, including how to provide support in the later stages.
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