Hi! Thanks for writing in! A few ideas: a noise machine or CD player with calming music, heat – definitely need the room to be warm, my residents love when their rooms are hot!, reduce clutter, but do add comforting things like old photos or artwork they like (I always find it odd when residents don’t have any pictures!), comfy sheets or a comforter that the resident likes (blues and other light, calm colors are good), anything else personal and nice for others to connect with the resident about. Maybe some stuffed animals or a baby doll if the resident is interested! Many of my residents have stuffed animals and comfy pillows.
Rachael Wonderlin is an internationally-recognized dementia care expert and consultant. She has a Master’s in Gerontology and is the author of three published books with Johns Hopkins University Press. Rachael owns Dementia By Day, a dementia care consulting and education company.
Get the FREE “16 Things” poster!
Embracing Their Reality: Short Film
Learn about our trademarked approach to dementia communication through our award-winning short film.
16 Things I Would Want If I Got Dementia
Get the FREE “16 Things” poster for your personal use—or better yet—your dementia care community’s staff break room!
A beloved classic. Since 2014, Rachael Wonderlin’s moving poem has offered comfort and insight into the world of those living with dementia.
When you sign up, you’ll also receive notifications when new Dementia By Day content is released, helpful resources, and special offers sent directly to your inbox. We’ll never sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
