DEMENTIA
MEMORY LOSS Short-term memory loss and forgetfulness can also significantly increase the risk of flooding in a care home bathroom if the shower or a tap is leſt on aſter use. This can be avoided by using flood-proof plugs in the basins and showers with an auto shut-off function, such as AKW’s dementia- friendly Care Bluetooth-enabled smart electric shower.
RETRO MEMORY People with dementia have a good long-term memory, so are more familiar with fixtures and fittings that are from the past. Incorporate traditionally designed fixtures and fittings into any refurbishment, such as cross-headed taps and a conventional toilet flush and basins that are large enough to accommodate a toothbrush mug.
MIRROR CONFUSION It is usually important to include mirrors in bathrooms but, for a number of people with dementia, the reflections can be frightening, making them believe another person is in the room with them. To overcome this, a roller blind can be installed above the sink so the mirror can be covered when necessary.
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FLOOR COLOUR Consistent flooring shades are crucial, as a person with dementia can interpret a change in floor colour as a step up or down, leading to trips or falls. Dark colours can seem like gaping holes and a speckled effect can appear to be flecks of dirt, so a light, uniform colour is advised to avoid these problems.
VISUAL CONFUSION Contrasting colours in bathrooms can help users with dementia to effectively define and locate separate sections of the room, such as the shower and toilet areas. A contrast can be used to help differentiate a grab bar from a wall and the toilet seat from the pan, but a minimum LRV (light reflecting value) of 30 points of difference is needed between colours.
Using the right knowledge and accessible products, person-centric, dementia-friendly bathrooms can be created simply and at no extra cost than a standard bathroom adaptation, ensuring maximum safety and comfort – factors that are oſten the deciders for some families between one care home and another.
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