Tag: dementia
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Disaster Planning When Your Client Has Dementia: What Every OT Needs to Know
Emergency preparedness is complicated for anyone. For a person living with dementia, it can be overwhelming, terrifying, and — without thoughtful, individualized planning — genuinely life-threatening. Research published in The Gerontologist found that disaster preparedness is experienced as one of the most challenging responsibilities of dementia caregivers, with barriers including cognitive and behavioral unpredictability, limited caregiver capacity…
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Designing Dementia‑Friendly Homes: What the Research Tells Us
Alzheimer’s and other dementias change how a person moves, sees, and makes sense of their surroundings—but the home often stays exactly the same. Research is showing that this mismatch matters. Thoughtful home modifications can lower fall risk, support independence, and ease caregiver stress for people living with dementia (Struckmeyer & Pickens, 2016; Cha, 2025; Dalvand…
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HEAP-R: Elevating Home Safety Assessments for Persons with Dementia
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Occupational therapists (OTs) are uniquely positioned to help persons with dementia and their caregivers navigate the complex challenges of maintaining safety and independence at home. As dementia progresses, risks of accidents, confusion, and decreased function grow. To address these concerns systematically, evidence-based assessment tools are essential. The Home Environment Assessment…