May Newsletter

Brilliance Dementia Support & Consulting 

May Newsletter

"Living with brain changes doesn't mean giving up on life—it means creating a safe, familiar space where each moment can still shine with meaning, comfort, and love."

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Things to Keep in mind regarding safety in the home:

• avoid mirrors-Mirrors can be confusing or distressing.  Some loved ones may not recognize themselves or may see themselves as a stranger or a younger version of themselves. 

• Lighting Matters-Ensure all areas are well-lit. Motion sensor lighting can be especially helpful. This reduces the need to find switches and providing instant visibility.

• Thresholds or stairs-It may be helpful to mark thresholds and stairs with bright colored tape to improve visibility and avoid tripping.  Railings or a ramp are recommended. 

• Smooth Transitions-Moving between locations can sometimes feel overwhelming.  Offer gently, clear cues like: “Ok, Let’s head to the car.” Or “We’re getting home. Let’s go inside and relax.”

• visual Changes- People living with brain changes have difficulty seeing pastels and light blues/purples. Using contrasting colors can be beneficial. Be aware that a black rug/mat can look like a hole in the floor.

• use signs and labels- use large black print on a white background or use pictures.

• Avoid having coats, keys, jackets in plain sight- if your loved one tends to take Independant excursions or wanders outside the home these items can trigger them to want to wander.

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 Vision Changes in Dementia

1. Narrowed Field of Vision (Tunnel Vision)

• They may only see what's directly in front of them — like looking through a cardboard tube.

• They might miss things on the floor, to the sides, or even slightly below their eye level.

2. Depth Perception Problems

• Flat surfaces may look like steps or holes.

• A dark rug might look like a hole in the floor.

• A shiny floor could seem slippery or wet.

• They may struggle with steps, uneven floors, or reaching for objects.

3. Reduced Contrast & Color Perception

• Light and dark areas may blend together.

• Difficulty seeing white-on-white (like a plate on a white table).

• They may not notice shadows or may misinterpret them (like thinking a shadow is a hole).

• Color vision can fade, especially blues and purples.

4. Difficulty Recognizing Objects or Faces

• Even familiar people may seem unfamiliar if lighting is poor or if they’re not expecting them.

• Objects may be misidentified — a coat on a chair might look like a person.

5. Sensitivity to Glare or Poor Lighting

• Bright lights, reflections, or shadows can feel overwhelming or frightening.

• Dim lighting can increase confusion or anxiety.

6. Visual Hallucinations (more common in certain types, like Lewy Body Dementia)

• They might see things that aren’t there — people, animals, patterns.

• These are very real to them, even if you can’t see it.

" Laughter is the glitter of the soul — sprinkle that stuff everywhere."

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What's Happening

Exciting Announcement: "Happy Brain, Happy Life: Steps to Strengthen Your Brain and Enhance Your Life"

I am thrilled to introduce an upcoming class designed to help you unlock your brain's full potential. In this class you’ll discover practical strategies to boost memory, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function. It’s all about giving you the tools to live a healthier, more vibrant life!

TUESDAY MAY 27th at 1:00 at Fitness over Fifty. Call and leave a message to save your seat at this informative event! 541-929-5555

Find out more about Brilliance

I hope you've enjoyed the May newsletter but if you didn't and would like to be taken off of my email list please reply and let me know   This is NOT a replacement for healthcare.  This is not considered healthcare advice.  Please consult your loved one's healthcare providers for best practices and recommendations for your situation. 

www.brilliancedementia.com

541-214-3213 brillliancedementiaconsulting@gmail.com