Is This Space Dementia-Friendly?

This checklist helps you review a home, room, or care space through the eyes of someone living with dementia. It covers lighting, noise, layout, routine cues, and safety. You do not need to tick every item. Use it as a starting point and revisit it as needs change. Small changes can make a big difference.

How to use: Walk through the space slowly and tick each item that is already in place. Leave unticked items as your action list. Add notes at the bottom. You may want to involve the person with dementia — their experience of the space matters most.

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Section 1 — Lighting

Natural light is available during the day — windows are unobstructed Lighting is even throughout the room — no harsh shadows or very bright patches Fluorescent or flickering lights have been replaced or avoided These can trigger headaches and anxiety, particularly for people living with vascular dementia or migraine. Night lights or motion-sensor lights create a safe path at night — especially between bedroom and bathroom Light switches contrast with the wall colour and are easy to locate Glare from windows, shiny floors, or reflective surfaces has been minimised Mirrors are positioned carefully — covered or removed if they cause confusion or distress Some people do not recognise their own reflection and may become frightened or distressed.

Section 2 — Noise & Sound

Background noise is low — TV and radio are off when not actively in use A quiet space or retreat area is available when the person feels overwhelmed or anxious Soft furnishings (curtains, carpet, cushions) help absorb sound in main living areas Music used is familiar, calm, and chosen by — or with — the person Sudden or loud noises have been identified and minimised where possible Total silence is avoided — gentle background sound supports orientation and reduces anxiety

Section 3 — Layout & Navigation

Walkways are clear and unobstructed — no furniture or items create obstacles Flooring is non-slip, plain or matte, and consistent between rooms Dark rugs, shiny tiles, or bold floor patterns can be misread as holes, steps, or hazards. Changes in floor level (stairs, steps) are clearly marked with contrasting colour or edge strips Key rooms (bathroom, bedroom, kitchen) are clearly signposted with words and/or images Signage uses large, bold, high-contrast text — placed at eye level on the relevant door or surface Furniture stays in consistent positions — rearranging is avoided unless necessary Seating is recognisable — familiar shapes with armrests to assist sitting and standing Glass doors and windows have visible markings or stickers to prevent collisions

Section 4 — Routine Cues & Identity

The person's meaningful objects, photographs, and familiar items are visible in their space Familiar surroundings support a sense of self, continuity, and calm. A large, clear clock and a calendar or date display are visible in the main living area Daylight cues, clocks, and regular routine activities support the person's sense of time of day Items needed for daily tasks are visible and accessible — not stored away in cupboards Seeing an item acts as a prompt. What is out of sight may be forgotten. Cupboards and drawers are labelled clearly with words and/or pictures Important information is written in a consistent, familiar place — such as a whiteboard or notebook The environment reflects the person's tastes, interests, culture, and life history The daily routine is predictable and communicated clearly to the person

Section 5 — Safety

Trip hazards have been removed — loose rugs, electrical cords, clutter from walkways Grab rails are securely installed in the bathroom, toilet area, and on stairs Water temperature has been checked — thermostat is set at a safe level to prevent scalding Hazardous items (cleaning products, medications, sharp objects) are stored securely The stove or oven has safety controls or an automatic shut-off feature where appropriate Doors to potentially dangerous areas (garage, outdoor hazards) can be secured if needed Emergency contact numbers and key information are clearly displayed in a visible location Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and tested regularly If there is a wandering risk, the person wears or carries identification and a safety plan is in place

A gentle reminder

You don't need to action every unticked item at once. Focus on safety first, then comfort and orientation. Even one or two small changes can meaningfully reduce confusion, anxiety, and risk. It is also okay to involve the person with dementia in deciding what changes they would find helpful.

Notes & Actions

Use this space to record what you noticed, what you plan to change, and who is responsible for each action.