People with dementia have special flooring needs. Many develop gait and balance problems and walk with a shuffle.

For example, someone who shuffles or uses a walker can easily trip on area carpets. Others have low vision and perceptual problems that increase fall risk. For example, a dark carpet border may be perceived as a hole, and the person may attempt to step over the border or they may be uncertain of their step when walking on patterned carpeting.

Then, too, glossy or waxy finishes are slippery underfoot, and shiny floors reflect glare, making it harder to see.

And, as the person loses the ability to housekeep, items strewn in the walkway can be easily tripped over – like canes, shoes, newspapers, and extension cords.

But there is a lot you can do to make the flooring as safe as possible. For practical tips & solutions - hover over a circle.