The checklist may be used by family carers or care workers / service providers, and should be used in conjunction with the relevant help sheets, DVD, poster book and this website.
It is not expected that you will change everything, or use every device. Some changes will be easy to do yourself – others will require professional help. Some changes will be free or inexpensive, whilst others may be costly. To find the best solution for your needs and to avoid unnecessary expense, professional assessment is advised before any changes are made or products purchased. Contact the Independent Living Centre on 1300 885 886.
- Step 1 – Involve the person with memory loss or dementia and their support person / carer to identify any areas of concern.
- Step 2 – Go to the relevant section of the checklist, and consider each point as you walk through the house, starting with any areas of the home where difficulty is being experienced.
- Step 3 – Identify areas where specific changes to the environment or assistive technology use may benefit the person living with memory loss or dementia.
- Step 4 – Discuss ideas with the person with memory loss or dementia and their carer, and agree on an action plan, including what changes to the environment will be made or what pieces of technology will be used, who will make the changes, when and how they will be made, seeking professional advice and assistance as required. Consider the level of risk and the need for familiarity. Ensure that strategies are used in a person centred and ethical manner. Only change what needs changing, as changes may add to confusion and disorientation.
- Step 5 – Implement action plan.
- Step 6 – Review the effect of the changes on the person living with memory loss or dementia and their carers.
Further Information
Technology and the way individuals relate to it are constantly changing.
For further information and to discuss your individual needs and:
Copies of these free resources can be ordered by emailing dementia@health.gov.au