Basement remodeling for a cognitive disability

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Those who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer's disease have difficulties with memory and other sensory issues, but you can make a loved one feel more comfortable with basement remodeling for a cognitive disability. Cognition disability doctors and nurses can help you determine what areas your loved one has the most problems with before you start the job.

People with disabilities of this type can suffer from issues relating to the light in the room. If the basement is too dark, you risk your loved one falling down or tripping over things that he or she cannot see. Add a large overhead light or wall lamps that will illuminate the entire space without causing too much glare. When someone with a cognition disability sees light bouncing off glossy furnishings or decorations, it can make the person feel confused or disoriented.

Ask your contractor about basement remodeling for a congitive disability!

You might want to consider changing the windows in the room to let in extra light too. However, this will add to the overall costs.

When you start your residential remodeling project, make sure that you keep the level of noise in mind. Loud noises are disorienting for those with Alzheimer's and similar disorders. Noises can lead to confusion and other issues.

Whether you would use your basement as a bedroom or a living room, consider installing soundproofing materials to the walls. Soundproof finished basements are better for those with cognition issues because it keeps noises upstairs from filtering downstairs and potentially scaring or disorienting those in the room. 

Those with cognition disabilities often have problems walking and moving through crowded spaces, and some patients also experience balance problems. Adding a bathroom to the basement is a great idea not only for the family member with the disability, but also for the rest of the family.

Use special tiles that won't feel too slippery when wet to prevent falls.  Add a shower with a low ledge around the edges. This is easier for older people to climb into.

You might even consider adding a bidet to the bathroom, which can help in cleaning the person with the disability after they've used the restroom. This is especially helpful for those with an advanced cognitive disability and if you're having trouble bathing your loved one.

A residential renovation that can help you when it comes to accommodating disabilities should include easy to use faucets, handrails around the bathroom, and a chair or seat for the shower.

Motion-activated lights are also helpful for bathroom remodeling. Cognition disability patients can walk through different spaces in basements with these lights without fumbling in the dark for a light switch.

When someone you love suffers from dementia or Alzheimer's, it is extremely hard on the whole family. Basement remodeling for a cognitive disability can help that person feel more welcome in your home and ease the burden on other family members. Get started today with your area contractor.

Photo credit: Matt Niemi via Compfight CC.