How Occupational Therapists Say You Can Care for Your Loved Ones with Dementia

Occupational therapy professors share ways to enhance safety and connection.

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you or someone you know is a caregiver—just look at the numbers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 37.1 million people in the US provide unpaid care for older adults. In 2024, the Centers for Disease Control reported that more than 11 million of them care for someone with dementia.

Dementia refers to a group of neurodegenerative symptoms that affect cognitive function, memory, and mood. People with dementia, which includes Alzheimer’s and related conditions, have specific needs, particularly when it comes to their living environments.

Occupational therapists are healthcare providers who work with patients who have disabling conditions and help them accomplish everyday tasks. At Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), professors in the School of Occupational Therapy are sharing the following tips for supporting individuals with memory loss and cognitive issues like dementia.

Reorganize the home

“For individuals with dementia, cognitive decline often occurs alongside age-related changes that may also affect their balance and vision,” said Angela Butler, OTD.

To reduce the risk of falls, she said an occupational therapist might recommend removing low tables, ottomans, and scatter rugs. “If a large area rug is used, corners and edges should be taped or tacked down,” Dr. Butler added. Sharp objects, car keys, and other safety hazards may also need to be removed to keep the environment safe.

Well-distributed and even illumination is crucial for eliminating shadows or dark corners that could pose risks. Dr. Butler recommends working with an occupational therapist to determine appropriate lighting in your living space.

Use environmental supports

Simple notes, labels, or other visual reminders can help individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia, said Danielle Amero, OTD.

“Voice-activated or smart assistants are now common in many homes, and they can support task completion for older adults with cognitive conditions,” Dr. Amero said. She added that these devices can also be useful for caregivers.

“Utilizing advances in smart home technology or security cameras can help with supervising or feeling secure if leaving a loved one alone in the home,” Dr. Amero said.

Encourage healthy mental activity

Dr. Butler said conversing with an individual affected by dementia is an excellent way to mentally stimulate them.

“When speaking to the individual, you can ask questions starting with ‘What do you think?’ and ‘What do you like?’ Discussion does not have to be about current events, but it should encourage thought and exchange of information,” Dr. Butler said.

Communicate and connect

Dr. Amero encourages caregivers to meet individuals where they are rather than where the caregiver thinks they should be. Instead of correcting their loved ones, caregivers should focus on “connecting and redirecting.”

Quality time together can look as simple as “folding laundry together, spending a quiet moment watching the sunset, or making a sandwich,” Dr. Amero said. She said simple, routine and familiar tasks are key to making the individual feel comfortable and safe.

“How well the task was completed, in the end, doesn’t matter as much as the individual’s ability to feel successful in their completion,” she continued.

She also recommends exploring programs at local hospitals or senior centers, which may offer “Memory Cafes” where individuals with memory impairment and their caregivers can socialize.

Take care of yourself

Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s is a significant commitment. Dr. Amero pointed to the Alzheimer's Association as one valuable resource, offering discussion boards and tips. Many local hospitals also host caregiver support groups.

“Your care partner would not want harm to come to you while caring for them,” Dr. Amero said. “It's a big commitment and it's OK to ask for help.”