Providing memory triggers such as labelled photos and memorabilia can also reinforce the person’s sense of identity and provide pleasure.
For many people the changes associated with dementia, such as memory loss, difficulty with making sense of their environment, or finding things around them, can exacerbate anxiety and frustration. Common dementia related issues in the lounge room may include difficulties with remembering where things are, using the phone, calling for help, using entertainment devices and stimulating the brain and electrical safety. Consider these features in a lounge room which may support independence and safety:
- Enough circulation space to move about freely with a walking stick, frame or wheelchair if used
- Correct furniture height (person’s feet should rest on the floor when sitting)
- Armrests on the furniture to push up from and firm cushions to prevent person sinking into seat
- Contrasting colours for walls and doorways to highlight boundaries of each room
- Colour contrast between furniture and floor
- Floor free of hazards such as rugs, or items that can be tripped upon or walked into
- Curtains or blinds – sheer net to reduce glare
- Remove bold/ busy patterns on wallpaper, curtains or floor coverings if disturbing
- Glare and reflections from lights and windows to TV eliminated
- Safety glass or safety film on windows
- Door mural
- Item locator device
- Labels or signs to illustrate steps in operating the controls
- Orientation and reminder support - automatic calendar clock, orientation board, noticeboard, diary or desk diary, bill organizer, picture phone, message centre
- Smoke detector with its battery changed every six months and vacuumed each month for dust
- Supportive lighting, for example night lights with sensors, automatic light switch, automatic timers eg turn lamp on and off
- Sensor lighting switches on when movement is detected and bed sensor lamp
- Chair occupancy sensor
- Emergency phone numbers kept near the phone
- Personal Emergency Response System pendant worn throughout day
- TV/DVD universal or simple remote control
- Hearing amplifier
- Pre-recorded reminders
- Picture phone
- Labelled photos, talking photo album, digital photo frames
- Outlet covers or power point safety covers
- Electrical cord clips or tubing to keep them safe, tidy and disguised
- Long electrical cords on appliances replaced with coiled or retractable cords
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.