Environmental Modifications Tailored for the Dementia Patient

A variety of modifications of the living environment have been proposed as beneficial for minimizing the psychological and behavioral symptoms of dementia, as well as promoting maximal functional independence. Potential modifications include physical design elements such as wandering pathways, electronically controlled exits, and secured outdoor courtyards as well as alterations of other environmental components such as bright light exposure, ambient noise, music, and color. Interventions targeted at normalizing the circadian abnormalities found in dementia patients include modification of activity timing, exercise, light exposure, nocturnal darkness, and ambient temperature adjustment.