Ever since the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease has started to gain more attention, many people have been worried about their loved ones’ care. Today, with advancements in technology and the availability of various home care aides, there is a growing number of caregivers learning how to create a home that will be much easier for their loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. In case you or your loved has been diagnosed with this disease then it is important to make your home Alzheimer’s friendly which can improve the experience of being indoors,
Here are some tips that can make your home Alzheimer’s friendly:
- Reduce Clutter
The first thing that you need to consider when trying to make your home Alzheimer’s friendly is reducing clutter. Clutter can be a big problem because it diminishes efficiency, adding stress to your loved one and even embarrassing them. Clutter can interfere with the daily routine of your loved one and cause them to have anxiety or frustration as well as reduce their mobility.
- Create a Routine
While routine is often recommended for children with special needs, it can also be very beneficial for adults who have Alzheimer’s disease. Routines help your loved one know what to expect and when they can expect it. A consistent bedtime routine can help reduce confusion, stress, and anxiety. When a routine is set, you will also be able to recognize any changes with your loved one much easier.
- Colorful Decor
Stick with calming, softer colors such as pale yellow, blue, and brown. Perhaps elaborate on using different colors to label for example the TV remote or which cupboard has what items
Bright colors can have a positive impact on memory loss patients. Using bright colors in the home can help make your home Alzheimer’s friendly. It is important not to go overboard because colorful décor may increase anxiety for some patients.
- Play Music
Research suggests that listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease. Here is a tip: If your loved one enjoys a particular artist, play them often. If your loved one reacts negatively to a particular artist or song type, choose something else to help lighten the mood.
- Use Puzzles
One excellent way to deal with memory loss is by using puzzles. There are so many kinds of puzzles that your loved one can use and benefit from. Just make sure that you use a puzzle that is easy for your loved one to work on, such as a jigsaw puzzle or a word search puzzle. Here is a small tip: Be sure the jigsaw puzzle has large pieces, vibrant colors, or have a favorite family photo made into a puzzle
- Use the Right Lighting and Sounds
Lighting and sounds can impact the behavior of your loved one. In a dark room, patients with Alzheimer’s disease tend to get confused, paranoid, and aggressive. It is recommended to have enough lighting so that you do not have to turn on the lights every time you need to walk in the room. It is also important not to use harsh sounds while they are sleeping, such as loud music or other noises.
- Keep Doors Locked and Alarmed
Locking doors can be a big help in protecting your loved one from wandering away. If your loved one does wander in a moment of confusion or come across a door that is open, having an alarm will alert you to the situation and let you locate them much faster. Also, it is also important to look for and change out any key locks that have become worn.
By using these tips, you will be able to create a home that can make it much easier to deal with the common complications of Alzheimer’s disease. You will be able to reduce the amount of stress and anxiety that your loved one experiences giving them the best environment possible with their condition.
