Dementia is a huge problem for Australians, with an estimated 250 people dioagnosed every day – and many of them seniors.
Recent studies show that 70% of Australians wish to remain at home as they age instead of moving to a care facility full time – no doubt many suffering from dementia – and they need a safe living environment that takes their condition into account, from early stages to end of life dementia care.
In this article, you will learn practical ways to support you or your loved one with dementia to live at home all while keeping safety, comfort and independence front and centre.
Why Home Safety Matters in Dementia Care
As dementia progresses, everyday tasks that once seemed simple – like cooking a meal, walking down a hallway, or taking a shower – can become confusing or even dangerous. Memory loss reduced problem-solving ability, and changes in perception all increase the risk of accidents and injury.
That’s why creating a safe and supportive environment is one of the most important things you can do when caring for someone with dementia. Safety isn’t about removing independence but about preserving it. When a home is well-adapted, it empowers the person with dementia to avoid nursing home care and continue living with dignity and confidence in familiar surroundings.
Small changes – improved lighting, clear pathways, and secure storage – can make a big difference in reducing falls, preventing confusion, and lowering the chance of emergencies. And just as importantly, a safer home provides peace of mind for families and carers who want their loved one to remain at home for as long as possible.
Living Safely with Dementia: A Room-by-Room View
Every home is different, but for someone living with dementia, small adjustments can make a big difference. Here’s how each area of the home can be adapted to promote both safety and comfort without losing that all-important sense of familiarity.
Kitchen
- Remove hazards like sharp knives or chemicals
- Install safety locks on cupboards and appliances
- Use clear labels and simple layouts
Bathroom
- Non-slip mats, grab bars, raised toilet seats
- Lock away medications and cleaning products
- Consider supervised use if needed
Bedroom
- Clear walking paths and night lights
- Use contrasting colours to distinguish bedding and furniture
- Comfortable bedding and easy-to-use clothing
Living Areas
- Secure rugs and electrical cords
- Use familiar, calming décor
- Remove clutter to reduce tripping risk
Entrance/Exits
- Install secure locks if wandering is a concern
- Use signage or visual cues on doors
- Consider sensor lights for outdoor areas
For more help, Vital’s Home and Environmental Checklist serves as a great tool to review your space and make any recommended changes to keep it safe.
Creating Comfort for Dementia Sufferers Through Routine
After making the environment safe comes routine. And for someone living with dementia, routine isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Predictable daily patterns provide a sense of stability and reduce the anxiety that often comes with memory loss or confusion. A familiar environment, paired with consistent routines, can bring comfort, reduce agitation, and help maintain a person’s independence for longer.
Simple things like waking up at the same time each day, eating meals in the same place, or following a set bedtime routine can make a world of difference. Familiar furniture, family photos, cherished objects, and even long-time smells and sounds all help ground a person in their space and bring a reassuring sense of “home.”
Importantly, carers and loved ones should try to keep changes minimal and gradual. Sudden rearrangements or overstimulating environments can be disorienting and distressing. Instead, the goal is to create a calm, predictable space where the person with dementia feels secure, connected, and at ease.
Technology and Tools That Help Dementia
Modern technology offers a wide range of tools that can make living at home with dementia safer and easier – for both the person affected and their carers. These assistive solutions are designed to support memory, enhance communication, reduce risks, and promote independence wherever possible.
Some examples include automatic stove shut-off devices, motion-sensor lighting for night-time safety, medication reminders, and GPS-enabled trackers to assist with wandering. Voice-controlled assistants (like smart speakers) can also help with daily prompts, play calming music, or connect with loved ones.
Even low-tech solutions, like clearly labelled cupboards, large-faced clocks, or whiteboards with daily routines, can make a big impact. The key is choosing tools that support – not overwhelm – the individual, and introducing them gradually with simple, step-by-step guidance.
When to Seek Professional In-Home Dementia Support
As dementia progresses, it can become increasingly difficult for family members to provide care on their own. Recognising when to seek professional in-home support is a key step in ensuring safety, wellbeing, and quality of life for everyone involved.
Some signs that additional help may be needed include:
- Increased confusion, agitation, or wandering
- Difficulty managing personal hygiene or daily routines
- Noticeable changes in mobility or risk of falls
- Missed medications or poor nutrition
- Carer stress, burnout, or lack of sleep
Utilising trained Dementia Care Services professionals doesn’t mean giving up control – rather, it provides support. These specialists understand the complexities of the condition and can provide tailored care, from daily living assistance to behavioural strategies and emotional support.
Recognising the need for help early on can prevent crisis situations and make it easier to plan a consistent, compassionate care routine. Most importantly, professional help allows families to focus on what matters most: spending meaningful time together, rather than being overwhelmed by the demands of caregiving.
How Vital Home Health Services Helps People with Dementia
Our professionally trained nurses and carers understand dementia and ways to support those suffering. Depending on the stage of dementia and individual needs, our team creates a personalised care plan to look after you or a loved one at home, including but not limited to:
- Personal hygiene
- Oral care
- Feeding and meal preparation
- Gardening
- Auxiliary care
- Social and emotional support
- Wound management including complex wounds
- Incontinence management
- Medication management
- Assistance with in and out of home respite
- Client and carer support and advocacy
- Identifying and providing referrals for support groups and services
- Education and support for loved ones
Final Words About Dementia Care at Home
Creating a safe and supportive home environment for someone living with dementia is entirely possible with care, planning, and the right steps. By making thoughtful adjustments, you can help reduce confusion, prevent accidents, and support your loved one’s independence and dignity.
Take a moment to assess your home or your loved one’s space with fresh eyes – small changes can make a big difference. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Dementia care professionals, like the experienced team at Vital Home Health Services, are here to guide you with tailored advice, in-home support, and genuine care every step of the way.
If you need help with dementia and end of life care, please contact our friendly team for support.
