Seeing, Hearing, Feeling Differently – Understanding Sensory Changes in Dementia
Living with dementia can change how the world looks, sounds, and feels. Over the years, I’ve been privileged to learn from many people living with dementia who have generously shared their experiences of sensory changes with me.
Their insights have shaped how I work and what I notice - the small things that can make a big difference. Whether it’s the colour of a chair, the background hum of a TV, or the feel of water in the shower, these everyday details can profoundly affect comfort, confidence, and wellbeing.
Everyone’s experience is unique, but understanding and adapting to sensory changes can make life feel calmer, safer, and more connected - both for the person living with dementia and those supporting them.
If you’re noticing changes in how the world feels - perhaps things look different, sounds seem louder, or everyday activities feel trickier - please know you’re not alone. Together, we can explore what matters most to you and find practical ways to make daily life easier and more enjoyable.
You can get in touch via franhamilton.co.uk/contact.
Vision
Changes in how we see the world are very common. People may have difficulty judging distances, seeing objects clearly against backgrounds, or misinterpreting patterns or shadows.
A simple example: I once supported a gentleman who was having frequent falls when sitting down in his armchair. Everything in his lounge was a similar cream colour - carpet, chair, walls. Once we added a red blanket to the chair, he could see where to sit and the falls stopped.
A small change, a big difference.
Other visual tweaks that can help:
Use contrasting colours (for example, a coloured toilet seat or crockery)
Avoid shiny or patterned flooring
Increase and even out lighting
Regular eye checks and the right glasses
Hearing
When hearing changes, it can feel harder to follow conversations or remember what’s been said - simply because not everything was heard in the first place.
Getting hearing checked and keeping hearing aids working well can make a real difference.
Some people also experience hyperacusis - difficulty filtering out background noise. Environments with constant sound (like TVs or group activities) can be overwhelming. A quieter space, gentle music through headphones, or one-to-one conversation can all bring calm and connection back.
Balance
Falls are not just about strength or fitness - vision, hearing, and sensory feedback all play a role.
Things that can help:
Keep pathways clear
Avoid leaving things on stairs
Ask for referrals to falls services or occupational therapy
Use secure footwear
Add handrails or supports where needed
And remember: stand up, pause, find your balance, then move.
Smell
Changes in smell can be subtle or surprising. Some people experience phantom smells, or find certain scents overwhelming.
Little strategies can help - like using Vicks VapoRub or Tiger Balm under the nose to override unwanted smells, or avoiding strong sprays and nail varnish in living areas.
Your local Fire Service can offer a free home fire safety check and fit smoke alarms to keep you safe and reassured.
Touch
Some people become more sensitive to touch, finding washing or dressing uncomfortable. Slowing down, warming creams, and encouraging choice and control can reduce anxiety. Soft lighting, familiar music, and a calm pace all help transform routine care into moments of connection and comfort.
Stress and Support
All of these sensory changes can affect mood and confidence. But remember - every small step you take to understand and adapt your surroundings is helping.
Please be kind to yourself, talk things through, and share what works. Your ideas and experiences will help others too.
If you’re living with dementia, supporting a loved one, or part of a care team wanting to understand more about sensory changes and everyday wellbeing, I’d love to support you.
We can explore together what matters most to you, identify what’s getting in the way, and find creative, practical ways forward.
Let’s make life feel calmer, safer, and more connected.
Get in touch here Explore support for you and your family