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The Ultimate Checklist to Make Your Home Dementia-Friendly
A Room-by-Room Guide to Creating a Safe, Supportive Space for Your Loved One
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Written by
Tyler Zanini, Founder at Memoryboard
Caring for someone with dementia often starts at home. As memory, coordination, and cognitive functions decline, the environment around your loved one plays a crucial role in their safety, comfort, and sense of independence. That’s why making your home dementia-friendly isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the ultimate dementia-friendly home checklist, packed with practical tips to help you minimize confusion, reduce fall risks, and create a supportive living environment.
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Why Make a Home Dementia-Friendly?
Reduces confusion and anxiety with clear layouts and visual cues
Prevents accidents and injuries through better lighting and hazard removal
Supports independence with simplified controls and familiar routines
Encourages connection through tools like Memoryboard, which helps loved ones stay in touch with gentle reminders and uplifting messages
General Tips for a Dementia-Friendly Home
Install motion-sensor night lights in hallways and bathrooms
Use large-font signs for room labels (e.g., “Kitchen”, “Bathroom”)
Avoid busy patterns on rugs, upholstery, or wallpaper
Keep floors clutter-free and remove loose cords or tripping hazards
Display photos of family and friends prominently
Use contrasting colors to help identify furniture and important items
Kitchen Safety Checklist
Lock away sharp objects and cleaning supplies
Label drawers and cabinets with both words and pictures
Use a stove guard or disable the stove when unsupervised
Store commonly used items within easy reach
Install an automatic shut-off for appliances
Bathroom Modifications
Add grab bars near the toilet and in the shower
Use non-slip mats in the tub and on the floor
Label faucets “Hot” and “Cold” clearly
Install a raised toilet seat for easier access
Keep toiletries and medications clearly labeled and organized
Living Room & Bedroom
Arrange furniture to allow easy navigation
Remove glass or sharp-edged tables
Use a digital clock with day/date display to reduce confusion
Opt for simple, cozy bedding in calming colors
Keep frequently used items (TV remote, glasses, Memoryboard) visible and easy to reach
Front Door & Entryway
Use a door sensor or chime to monitor exits
Install a deadbolt or security lock out of direct line of sight
Consider a visible Memoryboard near the door for reminders like “It’s Tuesday—Bingo Day!”
Add a bench or chair for safe shoe removal
Outdoor Areas
Make paths even and well-lit
Use clear signage for garage, garden, or mailbox
Lock up hazardous tools or chemicals
Create a small, secure garden space for peaceful outdoor time
Technology to Support Memory and Safety
A dementia-friendly home isn’t just about physical layout, it’s also about emotional support. Tools like Memoryboard can:
Send daily messages and reminders from family
Show familiar photos to spark joy and recognition
Help orient loved ones with custom schedules and visual cues
Final Thoughts
Creating a dementia-friendly home is one of the most loving steps you can take. By making thoughtful changes, you can reduce stress, support routines, and give your loved one a greater sense of comfort and dignity.
Visit Memoryboard.com to learn how our display can bring clarity, comfort, and connection into your loved one’s daily life.
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