Creating a Memory-Friendly Home Environment: Professional Tips from Our Care Team

When caring for a loved one with memory challenges, small changes to their living space can make a big difference in their comfort and safety. As memory care professionals at Bridgeway Senior Healthcare, we'd like to share some practical tips to help you create a more supportive home environment.
Using the Senses to Create ComfortOur senses play a powerful role in how we experience our environment. Here are some simple ways to make your home more soothing:

• Keep lighting gentle and consistent to minimize shadows that might cause confusion
  
• Try calming scents like lavender or vanilla using a simple essential oil diffuser
  
• Play soft, familiar music during potentially stressful times of day
  
• Ensure comfortable room temperatures throughout the home
  

Making Navigation EasierClear organization and visual cues can help your loved one maintain independence and feel more confident moving around their space:

• Label cabinets and drawers with both words and pictures
  
• Use contrasting colors to make important items stand out (like a dark toilet seat on a white toilet)
  
• Keep frequently used items where they can be easily seen and reached
  
• Reduce clutter while keeping familiar, comforting objects in place
  

Creating Spaces for ActivitiesSetting up dedicated areas for enjoyable activities can provide both purpose and pleasure:

• A small indoor plant corner with easy-to-care-for greenery
  
• A cozy corner with family photos and favorite books
  
• A simple craft space with familiar materials
  
• A comfortable spot near a window for bird watching
  

Safety Without Losing the Homey FeelMaking your home safer doesn't mean it has to look institutional. Try these subtle but effective changes:

• Install motion-sensor night lights in bathrooms and hallways
  
• Secure loose rugs or consider removing them
  
• Keep frequently used items at waist height to avoid reaching or bending
  
• Use child-proof locks on cabinets containing potentially harmful items
  

The Comfort of Daily RoutinesConsistent daily patterns can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of security:

• Try to serve meals at the same times each day
  
• Create simple morning and bedtime routines
  
• Keep "morning" items and "evening" items in separate, clearly marked spots
  
• Post a simple daily schedule where it's easy to see
  

Making Meals and Snacks EasyGood nutrition is easier when food and drinks are easily accessible:

• Create a safe snack station with healthy options like nuts and dried fruits
  
• Keep water visible and available throughout the home
  
• Use clear containers so food and drinks are easy to spot
  
• Place healthy snacks at eye level in the refrigerator
  

Remember: You're Not AloneCreating a supportive home environment is an ongoing process, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. At Bridgeway Senior Healthcare, we understand the challenges families face, and we're here to help:

• Join our Alzheimer’s support group to connect with other families
  
• Learn from others who are on similar journeys
  
• Access our educational resources and expert guidance
  
• Share experiences and discover new solutions
  

Whether you're just starting to adapt your home or looking for new ideas to try, we're here to support you. Contact our Community Outreach Coordinator, Christina Flanagan Bistis, at [email protected] or (908) 874-7200 to learn more about our support services and memory care programs.
Remember, every family's journey is unique, and what works best for your loved one may take some trial and error. The key is to make changes gradually and observe what helps create the most comfort and security for your loved one.

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