AI generated image of a living room with nonslip flooring, large, numbered clock, bulletin boards, levered handles, etc.

 

As we recognize National Alzheimer's Awareness Month, we can consider how we can better support individuals with memory loss who choose to age in their own homes. Understanding effective home modification strategies can make a real difference.

Rather than viewing the home as a static environment that must simply accommodate decline, we can help transform it into an active partner in maintaining independence, safety, and dignity. This person-centered approach recognizes that with thoughtful modifications and assistive technology integration, familiar home environments can become powerful tools for supporting memory and daily function.

Why Home-Based Solutions Matter

The desire to remain in one's own home runs deep, and for people with memory loss, familiar surroundings provide measurable benefits including reduced anxiety, improved orientation, and support for remaining cognitive abilities. However, homes originally designed without regard to changing need, people often require strategic modifications to continue living safely and with satisfaction as memory changes occur.

Essential Modifications by Living Area

Kitchen Safety and Function

The kitchen presents both the greatest opportunities for maintaining independence and the most significant safety risks. Key modifications we should be recommending include:

• Automatic shut-off devices for stoves and water faucets to prevent accidents from forgotten appliances - these are becoming more affordable and easier to install

• Glass-front cabinets or open shelving to make items visible and reduce the frustration of searching through closed storage

• Color-contrast solutions such as brightly colored cutting boards against light countertops, or distinctive handles on important drawers and cabinets

• Lever-style handles on cabinets and faucets for easier operation when fine motor skills become challenging

• Induction cooktops that remain cool to touch and feature automatic shut-off capabilities

• Task lighting under cabinets to illuminate work surfaces clearly and reduce shadows that can cause confusion

Bathroom Modifications for Safety

Bathrooms require our careful attention as they are where most falls occur. Essential modifications include:

• Strategically placed grab bars near toilets and in showers, chosen to contrast with wall colors for better visibility

• Walk-in showers with built-in seating and handheld shower heads to eliminate dangerous transfers and provide stability

• Raised toilet seats with contrasting colors to improve visibility and ease transfers

• Non-slip flooring with minimal patterns to avoid visual confusion while maintaining safety

• Motion-activated nightlights for safe nighttime navigation without fumbling for switches

• Lever faucets and large, clearly marked controls that are easier to see and operate

Bedroom Comfort and Orientation

The bedroom should promote restful sleep and easy morning orientation through:

• Bedside lighting with accessible switches positioned for easy reach without getting up

• Clear pathways to the bathroom with motion-activated lighting to create safe nighttime routes

• Familiar photographs and meaningful personal items strategically placed for comfort and recognition

• Simple, high-contrast clocks that display both time and day/night information clearly

• Accessible clothing storage with seasonal items visible and easy to reach

Living Areas for Connection and Engagement

Main living spaces should support social interaction and daily activities by incorporating:

• Open sightlines between kitchen, dining, and living areas to facilitate supervision and maintain connection

• Comfortable seating positioned to view both indoor activities and outdoor spaces for stimulation

• Consistent, glare-free lighting throughout to support reading and other activities

• Designated memory stations near entrances with specific spots for keys, wallet, and phone

• Large calendars and information boards in central locations for important reminders and schedules

Whole-Home Environmental Strategies

Wayfinding and Navigation

We can achieve effective wayfinding throughout the home through:

• Clear signage combining words and pictures on doors to identify bathrooms, bedrooms, and other key areas

• Marked pathways using shapes or colors on tape or paint to guide movement through the house

• Consistent lighting levels throughout to reduce confusion and eliminate dark corners

• Systematic removal of trip hazards including throwing rugs, electrical cords, and unnecessary clutter

• Simplified décor that reduces visual confusion while maintaining personal meaning and familiarity

Safety and Security Systems

Comprehensive safety approaches should include:

• Door monitoring systems that alert caregivers to unexpected exits without being overly restrictive

• Smart locks with keypad entry to eliminate concerns about lost or misplaced keys

• Wearable medical alert systems that provide immediate access to help when needed

• Discrete motion sensors throughout the home to track movement patterns and detect falls

• Automatic emergency lighting systems to maintain safety during power outages

Integrating Other Assistive Technology Effectively

Technology integration should enhance the home environment seamlessly rather than complicate it:

• Voice-activated assistants for setting reminders, playing familiar music, and controlling smart home devices with simple commands

• Automated medication dispensers that provide both visual and audible prompts to maintain medication routines

• Smart thermostats that maintain consistent, comfortable temperatures without requiring complex programming

• GPS tracking devices for safe community navigation while providing family peace of mind

• Simplified video calling devices to maintain family connections with user-friendly interfaces

• Smart doorbell cameras that allow remote visitor screening and enhance security

Creating Safe Outdoor Spaces

Don't overlook the importance of secure outdoor access, which can include:

• Fenced yards or secured patios that allow safe outdoor time without wandering risks

• Raised garden beds for continued gardening activities that provide purpose and physical engagement

• Well-lit pathways with appropriate railings to ensure safe navigation during various times of day

• Comfortable outdoor seating areas that encourage fresh air and social interaction

The Gradual Approach

Home modifications work most effectively when implemented gradually, allowing individuals to adjust to changes while maintaining the familiarity that's so important. Start with safety-critical modifications, then add comfort and convenience features over time. This approach respects the person's autonomy while ensuring their environment evolves appropriately with changing needs.

Conclusion

Aging in place with memory loss doesn't mean accepting limitations - it means creating environments that adapt and support. Through thoughtful home modifications and technology integration, we can help people maintain their independence, safety, and connection to the places they call home. This represents more than accommodation; it is empowerment through environmental design.

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References

Gitlin, L. N., Marx, K., Stanley, I. H., & Hodgson, N. (2018). Translating evidence-based dementia caregiving interventions into practice: State-of-the-science and next steps. The Gerontologist, 58(Suppl 1), S146-S155. https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article-abstract/55/2/210/656275

 

Hwang, A. S., Truong, K. N., Cameron, J. I., Lindqvist, E., Nygård, L., & Mihailidis, A. (2022). Co-designing ambient assisted living (AAL) environments: Unpack the literature through an occupational therapy lens. PLoS One, 17(1), e0262117. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1155/2015/720483

 

Lorenz, K., Freddolino, P. P., & Comas-Herrera, A. (2019). Technology-based tools and services for people with dementia and carers: Mapping technology onto the dementia care pathway. Dementia, 18(2), 725-741. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1471301217691617

 

Peek, S. T., Luijkx, K. G., Rijnaard, M. D., Nieboer, M. E., van der Voort, C. S., Aarts, S., van Hoof, J., Cijsouw, C., & Wouters, E. J. (2016). Older adults' reasons for using technology while aging in place. Gerontology, 62(2), 226-237. https://karger.com/ger/article/62/2/226/149058/Older-Adults-Reasons-for-Using-Technology-while

Cha S. M. (2025). A Systematic Review of Home Modifications for Aging in Place in Older Adults. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(7), 752. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13070752