A dining area that is familiar to the person with dementia and is similar to their past environment will provide the most support in maintaining independence. Consider these features in a dining room which may support independence and safety:
- Enough circulation space to move about and access the dining table freely
- Furniture guards
- Correct furniture height (persons feet should rest on the floor when sitting)
- Non-slip place mats (rubber or dycem)
- Colour or shade contrast used with table setting
- Minimised reflections and glare from polished surfaces
- Modified eating utensils, such as knork, one-way valve straw, clothing protectors
- Reminders or prompts for meals and medications (automatic calendar clock, Attainment voice cue, diaries, noticeboard, reminder wristwatch, mobile phone, medication reminder and dispensing systems)
- Social experience / Virtual dining
Some of the ideas are simple and inexpensive, whilst others require professional installation and are more costly. For professional advise regarding your circumstances and needs, please contact the Independent Living Centre on 1300 885 886.