The complex steps required to enable us to see are mind-boggling. In the blink of an eye, our brains are able to take transmitted information on the world around us, interpret that information based on input from other senses, memories, and thoughts, and then form a perception of that information to make us aware of what we’re seeing.
It’s no wonder that those with dementia can experience visual deficits and misperceptions, particularly in the areas of:
- Depth and/or color perception
- Contrast
- Motion detection
- Peripheral vision
Additionally, those with dementia can often experience a distorted perception of reality in the form of illusions. For instance, someone with dementia may see a shadow on the floor, and mistake it for something innocuous, such as the family pet, or a threat, such as an intruder – which can present quite a challenge for family caregivers. Other examples of dementia vision problems include:
- Mistaking reflections in glass or mirrors for another person. This can cause distress in thinking someone else is there, or believing that a bathroom mirror reflection means the bathroom is already occupied by someone else.
- Thinking that images on TV are real and happening in the room.
- Difficulty with sitting in a chair or on the toilet, fearing a fall.
- Distress in overstimulating environments that cause confusion.
- Reaching for objects that aren’t there, or missing the mark in trying to pick up an item.
- Problems with self-feeding and drinking.
- Maintain sufficient lighting throughout the home, and remove any particular items that cause distress or visual confusion if possible.
- Utilize contrasting colors whenever possible, such as serving dark-colored soup in a white bowl, or a fried egg on a red plate. If possible, carry this concept through to home furnishings, with darker furniture on a light carpet, and differing paint colors on trim vs. walls.
- Close blinds or curtains both at night and whenever the sun causes a glare.
- Make use of adaptive tools such as remote controls and phones with large buttons to provide the older adult with ample opportunities for independence.
- Ensure the senior has regular access to eye care, and advise the eye doctor of the senior’s dementia diagnosis.
Our dementia care experts in DuPage and the surrounding areas trust, can help implement these ideas and more to minimize dementia vision problems. Contact us online or call (630) 323-4665 for more information.