Welcoming a senior family member with Alzheimer's into your home can be a challenging but rewarding experience. To ensure their comfort and safety, it helps to make changes to your living environment. In this blog post from Senior Helpers Inland Empire, we'll explore several home reorganization tips that will help minimize disorientation and sundowning symptoms, making life easier for you and your loved one. From the bedroom to the kitchen, shared living spaces, and outside areas, we'll provide suggestions for creating a familiar and welcoming home.
Bedroom Reorganization Tips
To make the bedroom a safe haven for your loved one, consider surrounding them with familiar items. Placing personal mementos, like family photos, heirlooms, or favorite books, can offer a sense of comfort and recognition.
Proper lighting is crucial in minimizing disorientation. Utilize nightlights, lamps, and ample natural light to brighten the room. However, avoid harsh or glaring lights that could be uncomfortable for sensitive eyes.
Simplifying the space by removing clutter and organizing belongings in a clear, easy-to-navigate manner can make it easier for your loved one to move around and find what they need. Install bed rails or a floor mat to prevent falls. In addition, tuck away cords and other tripping hazards.
Kitchen Reorganization Tips
In the kitchen, labeling cabinets and drawers with clear, large print labels can help your senior family member find items with ease. Keep frequently used items easily accessible to foster independence.
Choose appliances with simple controls and functions to minimize confusion, and consider disabling potentially dangerous functions (e.g., stove burners) if necessary. Establishing a consistent meal schedule and encouraging your loved one to participate in meal preparation as much as possible can also provide a sense of routine.
Shared Living Spaces Reorganization Tips
Ensure furniture is arranged for easy navigation and remove clutter and obstacles from walkways to create clear pathways. Most home reorganization tips also emphasize the importance of having consistent, bright lighting throughout the home, using automatic timers or motion sensors for added convenience.
Displaying family photos and familiar artwork in shared living spaces can offer a sense of familiarity, and using consistent color schemes and patterns will make it easier for your loved one to recognize different rooms. To create a calming atmosphere, minimize background noise and distractions, and consider using white noise machines or soothing music.
Outside Areas Reorganization Tips
Creating a safe outdoor space is important for seniors with Alzheimer's. Install secure fencing and gates to prevent wandering, and remove potential hazards like sharp objects or uneven surfaces. Encourage outdoor activities by providing comfortable seating, shaded areas, and simple activities like gardening or birdwatching.
Proper lighting is just as crucial outdoors as it is indoors. Ensure outdoor areas are well-lit in the evenings and consider using solar-powered or motion-activated lights for convenience and safety.
Get Assistance With Senior-Friendly Home Design From Senior Helpers
Taking the time to reorganize and adapt your home will create a comfortable and safe environment for your senior family member with Alzheimer's. Our home reorganization tips can help make everyday life smoother for you and your loved one. If you need assistance with caring for a senior with Alzheimer's in Chino, Corona, Chino Hills, or San Bernardino County, CA, contact Senior Helpers Inland Empire. Our compassionate team is here to provide support, offering personalized in-home care services tailored to your family's unique needs.