Creating a Calm Environment for Your Loved One With Dementia

Creating the right environment for your loved one with dementia is crucial to their safety and overall wellbeing - as well as your own. In this short post, we discuss a few ways you can ensure your loved one is able to remain at home comfortably.

Simplify The Space

By maintaining a clean and tidy space, the individual you are caring for can keep a clearer mind. Depending on their stage of dementia, you may want to eliminate potential safety risks such as sharp objects, cleaning supplies, and medications. Also, it is helpful to minimize clutter such as loose rugs or cords, which could be a tripping hazard.

Encourage Consistency and Routine

Maintaining familiarity within the space is important for an individual with dementia. Try to encourage routine with daily tasks such as bathing, meals, and medication timings. By keeping things predictable, this can prevent confusion and frustration.

Engage the Senses

Being aware of the sounds, smells, and visuals in your loved one's environment is a key part of ensuring a calm space. If possible, eliminate loud sounds and always communicate in a soft and slow tone. It may be beneficial to play gentle music or background sounds to maintain tranquility. As for scents, keep them minimal and light. You may want to try an aroma diffuser with relaxing scents such as lavender. Additionally, having familiar objects such as photos and cherished decor can ease anxiety.

By simplifying your loved one's space, encouraging a consistent routine, and engaging their senses in a thoughtful way, you can significantly reduce anxiety and help them feel more secure. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in promoting a sense of comfort and stability. However, not everything will work the same for each individual - it is a continuous process of observing and adjusting.