Developing dementia can be an anxious and challenging time, not just for the person themselves but also for their friends and family. However, daily living can be made easier for the for all concerned with some specialist home adaptations explains David Walter, Mobility Specialist from Living Needs.
“Families living with dementia are likely to need support and there are many local groups out there who work hard to provide it, including the Alzheimer’s Society and places like The Pilton House Trust. At Living Needs we work closely with these specialist local organisations and charities and also with our experienced suppliers to offer a range of products specifically for families and people with dementia.
Being in your own home with your own possessions is very important as everything is familiar to you, but you may need to make it more dementia friendly to stay comfortable and safe. With some help and adjustments, it is possible to continue to live independently at home for longer.
In the early stages there may just be a struggle with memory issues but it is important to get help as early as possible and to start planning ahead about how daily needs may change in the future. For example is your home accessible? Are there any changes that could to make it easier to move around, for example installing a ramp instead of steps? Or a stairlift to help with stairs?
It is important to minimise the potential for accidents and make your home as safe as possible. Avoid trips and falls by investing in slip resistant flooring; adapting your bathroom to include a level access shower. Easy access for everyone, eliminates steps that you could potentially trip on.
Colours are important to those with dementia, a toilet seat that is red or blue stands out and makes it easier to relate to for someone with dementia. Grab rails on stairs, on outdoor steps and in the bathroom can also be coloured for the same reason.”
For advice on options and to view an extensive range of home adaptations and equipment to support Dementia visit the Living Needs showroom on Mill Road, near Rolle Quay, Barnstaple; open Monday to Saturday with free parking, or call 01271 374600 for a free home visit www.livingneeds.co.uk