HEALTHCARE FLOORING
Designing interiors with dementia in mind
While certain elements, such as safety flooring, are a ‘must’ for healthcare facilities, in most cases a more tailored interior design is required – especially when it comes to care units for those living with dementia. There is simply no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. What works for a hospital’s maternity ward, for example, may not suit a dedicated space for Alzheimer’s patients. Elizabeth Butcher, Healthcare Segment marketing manager at global flooring manufacturer, Tarkett, explores the key points to consider when specifying for specialist healthcare projects, particularly in terms of appropriate flooring.
Continuing scientific advancement means we’re now living longer. A study in 2010 showed that people over the age of 80 accounted for 4% of the population among OECD member countries, and that share is expected to more than double by 2050 (10%).
However, just because people’s lives are extended, it doesn’t mean they are necessarily healthier for longer. A large ageing population poses challenges when it comes to the potential resulting health issues, such as dementia, but also more general symptoms of ageing, such as loss of eyesight or disorientation.
Today, an estimated 850,000 people in the UK are living with dementia, with this figure expected to rise to over 2 million by 2051, as the condition is linked with age. The knock-on effect of this is a greater need for specialised healthcare solutions. In support of this, Tarkett has conducted extensive research into the needs of the elderly in terms of their environment, and particularly flooring, with a focus on dementia residents. After all, a solution that’s suited to a generic hospital ward may not work for a dedicated dementia unit. The contrasts, colours, patterns, and textures, used to help brighten up a healthcare space can have an adverse effect on those living with dementia, such as where high gloss floor finishes appear wet and therefore dangerous to walk across. It is important, consequently, that healthcare facilities are created in a way that is practical for all patients for the longest period of time possible, without compromising on the aesthetics of interior design.
Creating dedicated dementia and Alzheimer’s units
Although enabling the elderly to stay in their own homes is preferable, declining health often makes this impractical. It is estimated that demand for care homes will double by 2035, with many countries increasing the number of specialist units for those living with forms of dementia.
66 Health Estate Journal January 2020
A study in 2010 showed that people over the age of 80 accounted for 4% of the population among OECD member countries, and that share is expected to more than double – to 10% – by 2050.
This reflects the need to provide long- term care for people with the disease who can no longer live independently at home or in the care of relatives.
Dementia units must provide a space that is adapted to the needs of the resident and care staff, as well as offering visitor comfort. These units must therefore be designed to take into account everyone’s requirements and specific usage. The flooring plays an essential role in the design, and the specification parameters for this should include: pattern, contrast, colour, acoustics, and lighting – with rules defined according to the function of specific areas such as bedrooms, corridors, communal spaces, and treatment areas. In addition to the flooring, the overarching interior design should respond to two key themes:
‘Just like home’
The interiors should help residents with dementia fee they are in a reassuring and familiar environment that is ‘just like home’. This makes it easier for them to
Where NHS hospital wards discourage elderly patients from walking corridors unattended, in some cases this practice should actively be encouraged in specialist dementia units.
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