Summary
In this video we address how dementia affects a person’s vision and perception, focusing on the challenges these changes can bring to daily life. As dementia progresses, damage to the occipital lobe; the area at the back of the brain responsible for interpreting visual information—can alter depth perception and colour differentiation.
This can make it difficult for someone to interpret their surroundings accurately. For example, they might struggle to see the difference between objects of similar colours or to judge how far away things are, which can lead to uncertainty and hesitation.
Our dementia expert, Jayne, explains that as people with dementia age, many may develop additional vision issues, such as glaucoma, which impacts their field of vision, adding a “honeycomb” effect to what they see. She illustrates how this affects everyday tasks, such as recognising a white plate on a white table, which might appear indistinct and cause difficulty.
Jayne highlights that flooring can be a major source of confusion for individuals with dementia. Changes in flooring types—like moving from wooden floors to carpet—can appear as steps or barriers due to the brain’s altered perception.
Similarly, certain colours, such as blue flooring, may look like water to the person, creating hesitation or even fear. Jayne recommends a compassionate and practical approach: rather than dismissing their concerns, caregivers should reassure them by demonstrating that the surface is safe, such as stepping onto the carpet or floor first.
She also discusses the need for caution with black mats, which can seem like holes to someone with altered depth perception, leading them to try to avoid stepping on them. Jayne advises Caregivers to consider removing rugs or mats that might become tripping hazards due to their appearance.
Overall, Jayne encourages Caregivers to be mindful of these changes in perception to create a safer, more comfortable environment for loved ones with dementia, while offering practical ways to help them feel more secure in their surroundings.
FAQ: Vision Changes in Dementia - Your Questions Answered
Changes in flooring can be particularly challenging for people living with dementia. When the brain's visual processing is affected, even simple transitions from one surface to another can appear confusing or unsafe.
What's happening is that your loved one might be seeing changes in depth that aren't actually there. They might wonder if there's a step up or down, even on a flat surface.
Here's what you can do to help:
- Stand beside them at transition points
- Show them it's safe by walking first
- Keep pathways well-lit
- Remove unnecessary floor coverings
- Maintain consistent flooring where possible
With understanding and simple adjustments, you can help maintain their confidence moving around familiar spaces. Each successful transition builds their trust and independence.
When dementia affects visual processing, it becomes difficult to distinguish between objects of similar colours. For instance, a white plate on a white tablecloth might appear as one flat surface.
Practical solutions include:
- Using contrasting colours for plates and tablecloths
- Placing darker placemats under light-coloured dishes
- Ensuring good lighting during mealtimes
- Keeping table settings simple and uncluttered
These small changes can make a significant difference to mealtime independence and enjoyment. Many people find that once they make these adjustments, mealtimes become much more relaxed and successful.
Blue flooring can sometimes be perceived as water by people living with dementia. This isn't imagination - it's a real visual processing challenge that makes the floor appear unsafe to walk on.
To help with this situation:
- Walk onto the surface first to demonstrate it's safe
- Provide gentle reassurance through actions rather than words
- Consider changing to a more suitable floor colour when possible
- Ensure good, even lighting
Remember, your calm and supportive presence makes a real difference. Focus on showing rather than telling, and celebrate small successes together.
While rugs can make a home feel cosy, they can present challenges when dementia affects visual processing. Some people may not see flat rugs at all, while others might perceive them as obstacles to avoid.
Practical steps you can take:
- Remove rugs from main walking routes
- If keeping a rug, ensure it's securely fixed down
- Choose rugs with simple patterns
- Position any remaining rugs away from high-traffic areas
- Consider non-slip mats instead
These adjustments can help prevent trips and falls while maintaining a comfortable living environment. Safety and confidence in moving around the home are key priorities.
Black mats, commonly found in shops and public buildings, can appear as holes in the floor to someone living with dementia. This is because the brain may struggle to process the depth of dark surfaces.
Helpful strategies include:
- Planning routes that avoid these mats where possible
- Using alternative entrances if available
- Walking alongside your loved one for support
- Taking time to navigate these areas carefully
Understanding this challenge helps make outings less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Supporting someone with vision changes requires patience and understanding. What looks perfectly safe to you might appear very different to them.
Key approaches that help:
- Demonstrate safety through actions rather than words
- Create contrast between objects where needed
- Maintain consistent, good lighting throughout the day
- Remove potential hazards before they cause problems
- Allow extra time for moving between different areas
Most importantly, remember that these visual changes are very real to the person experiencing them. Your understanding and support can make a significant difference to their confidence and independence.
By making simple environmental changes and offering gentle support, you can help your loved one navigate their world more confidently. Each small adaptation contributes to maintaining their independence and dignity in daily life.
Remember: these changes in vision are a normal part of the dementia journey, and there are always ways to help. With the right support and understanding, many people continue to enjoy their daily activities and maintain their independence for longer.
Jayne is a highly experienced dementia care specialist with over 17 years in the field. She began her career in 2004, progressing through roles such as hourly visiting carer, coordinator in the live-in care department, and lead dementia trainer. Jayne completed Specialist Practice in Dementia (Mental Health) at Worcester University and has developed bespoke dementia training for managers, carers, and family members.
Recognised for her contributions, Jayne received the National Dementia Care Personality award at the Great British Care Awards 2012. She has also been a speaker at numerous conferences and reviewed dementia-related publications.
Now with Unique Senior Care, Jayne works as a recruitment consultant, recruiting carers both in the UK and overseas, contributing to dementia training for both staff and families. Jayne’s dedication to compassionate, person-centred dementia care is evident in her extensive experience and numerous achievements.
