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Curam Team
October 19, 2025
Introduction
In the UK, more than 850,000 people live with dementia, and that number is expected to reach 1.6 million by 2040. Many people with dementia or Alzheimer’s continue to live safely at home with the right dementia home adaptations and care support.
Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. With early planning, it’s possible to create a dementia-friendly home and even make workplace adaptations that support people to stay independent longer.
How to Make Your Home Dementia-Friendly
When adapting a home for someone with dementia, involve them in all decisions. While making changes early gives them time to adjust and feel empowered.
Here are practical dementia home adaptations that can make daily living easier:
1. Remove Trip Hazards and Improve Lighting
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Check for loose carpets or rugs.
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Replace worn or patterned flooring that may confuse the eyes.
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Use bright LED lights and plug-in night lights in hallways and bathrooms.
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Add a security light for the garden and entrance for safety.
2. Create a Calm, Familiar Living Room
A familiar environment helps reduce confusion and anxiety.
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Keep the furniture layout simple and consistent.
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Display family photos and memory objects to spark recognition.
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Replace patterned carpets with contrasting plain colours.
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Use clocks that show the date and time for dementia patients.
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Playing soft music or using a smart speaker to make environment more comfortable.
3. Adapt the Kitchen for Safety and Independence
The kitchen can be a high-risk area for people living with dementia.
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Use induction hobs that turn off automatically to improve safety.
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Label cupboards and drawers with pictures or colour codes.
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Fit a gas detector alarm and smoke alarm.
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Store cleaning products securely.
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Add adapted kettles and toasters that prevent burns.
4. Safer Hallways and Staircases
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Fit secure handrails on both sides of the stairs.
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Use contrasting edge markers on each step.
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Add motion sensor lights on landings.
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Consider moving the bedroom downstairs for easier access.
5. Bedroom Adaptations for Better Sleep
Evenings can be confusing for people living with dementia.
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Use motion sensor night lights near the bed.
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Choose bright, contrasting bedding.
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Lay out clothing in order for dressing.
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Fit bed exit alarms or pressure mats if needed.
6. Bathroom Safety and Accessibility
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Install grab rails beside the toilet and bath.
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Use non-slip mats and thermostatic taps to prevent burns.
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Add flood prevention plugs that change colour if water overheats.
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Consider a walk-in shower or wet room.
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Store medicines safely in a locked cabinet.
UK Grants and Support for Dementia Home Adaptations
If you’re in the UK, you may be eligible for help with dementia home improvement grants through:
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Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) – via your local council.
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Adult Social Services – for equipment or adaptations recommended by an occupational therapist.
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NHS Continuing Healthcare – funding for eligible dementia care needs.
Getting Dementia Care Support at Home
Many families find that home carers for dementia help maintain quality of life.
Through Curam, you can find experienced dementia carers who support daily living, medication reminders, companionship, and respite care.
Supporting People With Dementia at Work
People with early-stage dementia can continue working if employers make reasonable workplace adjustments.
Workplace Adaptations May Include:
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Improved lighting and quiet spaces.
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Clear signage and colour-coded zones.
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Flexible working hours and carer-friendly policies.
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Encouraging open communication about dementia support.
Helpful Dementia Resources in the UK
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Dementia UK Helpline – 0800 888 6678
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Alzheimer’s Society UK – for information and community support
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The Carers Trust – for carer support and respite information
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NHS Dementia Support – for medical and occupational therapist referrals
