How Bright Light Therapy Supports Dementia Care

Caring for someone with dementia comes with many challenges, including mood swings, disrupted sleep, and cognitive decline. However, research shows that sufficient light exposure can make a significant difference, improving mood, reducing depression, and even slowing memory loss.

The Impact of Light on Dementia

A groundbreaking study conducted over three and a half years in care homes found that exposure to bright light—specifically up to 1,000 lux—helped residents with dementia maintain better cognitive function and emotional well-being. Participants in well-lit rooms showed:

✔ 5% slower decline in orientation and memory.

✔ 19% reduction in depressive symptoms.

✔ 53% greater independence in daily activities, such as preparing meals.

These findings highlight how a well-lit environment can enhance the quality of life for dementia patients.

Regulating the Body’s Natural Clock

One of the key benefits of bright light therapy is its ability to restore the body’s biological clock. Dementia often disrupts the natural day-night cycle, leading to nighttime restlessness and daytime drowsiness. Increased exposure to bright light during the day helps regulate sleep patterns, allowing for more restful nights and increased alertness during the day.

A Natural Alternative to Medication

Many dementia patients are prescribed medications to manage symptoms, but these often come with unwanted side effects. Research suggests that bright light therapy can serve as a natural intervention, reducing the need for certain medications while supporting overall well-being.

How to Implement Bright Light Therapy at Home

Carers can introduce bright light therapy through simple adjustments:

✔ Ensure rooms are well-lit with high-lumen bulbs or daylight lamps.

✔ Encourage time spent near large windows or in outdoor spaces.

✔ Use light therapy lamps designed for dementia care to provide consistent exposure.

Bright light therapy is a simple yet powerful way to support dementia patients, enhancing both their mood and cognitive function while making daily care easier for carers.

🛍️ Suggested Product: Daylight therapy lamp with 10,000 lux lift your mood with an extra dose of light

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but non-drug treatments can help improve their quality of life. Engaging in cognitive activities, creative expression, and sensory experiences can support brain health and emotional well-being.

This blog is inspired by the Alzheimer’s Society’s guidance on non-drug treatments for dementia. We’re sharing key insights along with practical products that can support daily care.

Keeping the Brain Active

Cognitive therapies can help maintain mental function and slow cognitive decline.

✔ Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) – Involves activities like puzzles, discussions about the news, or creative tasks like singing. It encourages social interaction and mental engagement.
🛍️ Suggested Product: Brain Training Puzzle Set – Simple yet stimulating activities designed for dementia patients.

✔ Cognitive Rehabilitation – A professional helps the person work on tasks they find difficult, using stronger brain functions to support weaker ones.
🛍️ Suggested Product: Dementia-Friendly Activity Board – Encourages engagement and maintains fine motor skills.

Recalling Precious Memories

Memories play a crucial role in emotional well-being, and structured memory work can help bring comfort.

✔ Life Story Work – Involves creating a scrapbook or photo album to preserve personal memories.
✔ Reminiscence Therapy – Uses photos, music, or familiar objects to spark meaningful conversations.
🛍️ Suggested Product: Memory Book Kit – A guided scrapbook to help record and share important life moments.

The Power of Music & Creativity

Engaging in creative activities can stimulate the brain and boost mood.

✔ Music Therapy – Singing and listening to familiar songs can help reduce agitation and encourage interaction.
✔ Creative Expression – Painting, dancing, or crafting provide enjoyable ways to stay engaged.
🛍️ Suggested Product: Relish Dementia Aquapaints – A calming, mess-free painting experience that reveals beautiful images when brushed with water.

Incorporating these approaches into daily routines can make a meaningful difference. By focusing on stimulation, creativity, and sensory comfort, carers can help their loved ones live well with dementia.

💬 Have you tried any of these methods? Let us know in the comments!

Hearing your loved one say, “I want to go home,” can be heartbreaking—especially when you know they are already in a safe and caring place. This is a common experience for carers, and knowing how to respond with patience and reassurance can make all the difference.

This blog is inspired by the Alzheimer’s Society’s article “I Want to Go Home – What to Say to Someone in Dementia Care”. We’re sharing key insights from their advice, along with practical products that can help create a sense of familiarity and comfort.

Why Do They Keep Saying It?

People with dementia may struggle to recognize their current environment, even if they’ve lived there for years. Often, “home” refers to a place of safety, comfort, and familiarity, rather than a physical location. They might be recalling a childhood home or simply longing for a time when they felt more in control.

How to Respond with Care

Instead of correcting or dismissing their feelings, try these compassionate responses:

✔ Acknowledge their emotions – “I know home is important to you. What do you remember about it?”
✔ Reassure them – “You’re safe here, and I’m with you.”
✔ Redirect their focus – Offer an activity, such as looking at photos, playing music, or going for a short walk.
✔ Create a familiar environment – Personal objects, soothing scents, and soft lighting can bring comfort.

Helpful Products to Ease Anxiety & Bring Comfort

• 🖼️ Memory Frame with Family Photos – Helps trigger familiar memories and a sense of belonging.
• 🕯️ Aromatherapy Diffuser – Certain scents, like lavender, can reduce anxiety and create a calming atmosphere.
• 🎵 Dementia-Friendly Music Player – Playing familiar songs can soothe and bring joy.

By validating their emotions, creating a warm environment, and offering gentle redirection, you can ease their anxiety and help them feel more at home.

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Shop Our Comfort & Familiarity Bundle!

Help your loved one feel safe and reassured, no matter where they are. Our bundle includes:
✅ A digital photo frame preloaded with family pictures
✅ A calming aromatherapy diffuser
✅ A dementia-friendly music player

(Based on Alzheimer’s Society Blog)

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding. Many carers forget to take care of themselves, leading to stress, exhaustion, and burnout. But looking after yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

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Prioritising Your Well-being

“You can’t pour from an empty cup. You have to take care of yourself first.” – Alzheimer’s Society

Caring for a loved one is a full-time responsibility, but taking breaks is crucial. Here’s how to manage stress effectively:

✔ Take regular short breaks – Even 5–10 minutes to sit down and breathe can help.
✔ Stay connected – Talking to other carers can be a great support system.
✔ Use practical solutions – Small adjustments at home can ease your daily routine.

🛍️Check out some simple, stimulating activities to keep your loved one engaged while giving you a moment to recharge.
6 Packs 36 Pieces Large Puzzles
Fidget Blanket 

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Reducing Physical Strain

The Alzheimer’s Society emphasizes that carers often strain their backs and joints from helping with mobility, personal care, and lifting. Making small changes in the home can prevent injury and reduce stress.

“Adapting your home with supportive equipment can make care easier for both you and your loved one.” – Alzheimer’s Society

💡 Recommended Products:
🚽 Toilet-mounted handle – Provides extra stability for your loved one, making bathroom visits easier and reducing your need to assist every time.
🛏️ Bed assist rails – Help with getting in and out of bed safely, reducing lifting strain on the carer.

🛍️ Check out our carefully chosen carer-friendly support tools to make daily tasks easier.
Easy Grip Cutlery
Talking clocks & reminder alarms

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Asking for Help & Finding Support

Caring for someone with dementia is a big responsibility, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Alzheimer’s Society encourages carers to:

✔ Reach out to family and friends – Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
✔ Join a support group – Talking to others who understand can be incredibly helpful.
✔ Use time-saving products – Tools designed for dementia care can make everyday tasks easier.💬 What’s been the hardest part of your caregiving journey? Share in the comments—we’re here to help each other.