Environmental Modifications for those Suffering with Dementia

Changes in the environment are made to improve overall functioning in individuals with dementia. They are designed to support communication needs and abilities by reducing obstacles to decrease the impact of impaired body function. Assessing the individual’s performance in relevant settings is important for identifying environmental barriers and their potential modifications

Such as;

• at home
• a social setting
• clinical settin

Modifications are aimed at enhancing the following aspects of the environment:

Cognitive- Using personalized living spaces to aid memory and orientation, labels, signs that incorporate text and simple graphics (ex. Calendars), step-by-step sequencing cards to guide activities, and verbal instructions

Visual- Reducing glare, improving lighting, arranging items in an organized way, and providing a clear sight to items and locations

Auditory- Minimizing background noise and using amplification devices when needed.

https://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/archive/JA17p18.shtml