29a – Check list living environment for individuals with dementia

This checklist gives examples of how flats can be adjusted to the requirements of individuals with dementia.

The living environment/flat should be adjusted to the personal abilities of the individual with dementia taking into account spatial conditions. The changes should be adapted to the progression of the disease.

General safety

•   Remove trip hazards, e.g. remove runners
•   Fit windows with lockable handles and tilting possibilities
•   Lock radiator controls
•   Fit sockets with locks
•   Use cookers and irons with automatic switch-off
•   Install smoke alarms; in case of smokers use flame-proof bed linen
•   Safely store lighters, candles, matches; if necessary, remove
•   Safely store cleaning agents, medicines, chemicals and hygiene articles
•   Remove poisonous and prickly plants
•   Allow external opening of the flat door, even if the key is in the lock from the inside
• In general, attention should be paid to good lighting, avoid dark corners and

shadows

Entrance area of flat and corridor

•  Extend the lighting intervals in the stairwell
•  Secure landings (e.g. by fencing)
•   Mark in colour first and last step
•   Fit corridors and stairwells with handrails on both sides
•   Fit entrance door with motion detectors (e.g. glockenspiel, sensors or wireless

  warning detector).

•   Do without mirrors in the entrance area (general)
•   Use motion detectors as night lighting
•   Mark doors with function of the rooms
•   Conceal doors which should not be opened
• Use non-slip floor covering

Living room

•   In case of fear or unrest switch off or remove television and radio
•   If necessary, fit time switch to the television
•  In case of defective devices, repair is often more sensible than buying a new one
•  Note room overview, no mirroring surfaces
•  Prefer telephone with large buttons and pre-setting