Dementia and the home environment

2-minute read

If you have a person with dementia living with you, your home should help them know where they are, where they want to go (such as the toilet) and it should help them feel safe and secure. It should also be a place where they can be as independent as possible.

Take a look around your home to see if it's a safe and comfortable place for a person with dementia. Assess each room and space individually to see what changes might be needed.

You may need to modify your home to accommodate any problems with memory loss, disorientation, coordination and mobility. But dementia affects everyone in different ways, and you should only make changes that help with particular problems. Unnecessary changes can just add to the confusion.

Changes to your home are often very simple. They might include making sure the electric jug has an automatic cut-off switch, putting easy to read clocks or large calendars around the house, or checking the catches on gates work.

Help sheets that address the most commonly raised issues in preparing a dementia-friendly home are available to assist you.

You can find out more by visiting the Dementia Australia website or calling the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Dementia care options - expert advice

There are a number of care options available for people with dementia. People with dementia can have access to help at home, respite care and, as dementia worsens, residential care. Watch the video to find out what type of care is available.