Dementia care


Adapting the care home environment During the pandemic, we have had to think creatively about how to use space differently and reduce the risks from social isolation as well as risks of possible infection. At Exemplar Health Care, our main priority has been to find a balance between keeping people safe, while continuing to promote their independence, choice and control. Here follows some of the changes that


we have made to interior design across our homes.


Introducing stylish hygienic furnishings High standards of cleanliness are vital to keep everyone in our homes safe. During the pandemic, we have focused on introducing easy to clean and antimicrobial materials. Where possible, we have opted for


stylish designs that have a less clinical feel and involved those living in the home in the choice of style and colours. We strive to combine safety and aesthetics because it is important that our homes feel homely and comfortable for everyone living and working there.


Making entrance adjustments Going in and out of our care homes changed dramatically in 2020, and we have made changes to the design of the entrance areas. This has included introducing thermal


imaging cameras, UV air purifiers and space for people coming into the building to sanitize themselves, complete entry screening forms and put on PPE.


Going in and out of our care homes changed dramatically in 2020, and we have made changes to the design of the entrance areas


Creating multi-use spaces As our need to keep people safe during the pandemic has limited opportunities for people to go out, we have re-purposed rooms to create more space for activities that bring people together to reduce the risk of isolation. For example, fun activities like bingo


games have been moved to corridors, as this allows more residents to participate while maintaining social distancing. One of our homes, Scotia Heights in


Stoke-on-Trent, has transformed an old therapy room into a pub for people to enjoy spending time together, playing bar games, listening to music and even having a bar meal lunch. Another one of our homes, Ribble View


in Preston, has built a café in the home, so that people can continue to enjoy coffee and cake with friends. Ultimately, it is about being creative to


ensure that everyone feels at home and not separated from each other.


Maximising outdoor spaces Many of our residents have been unable to leave their home for most of the year, so we have made use of all of the space we have available within our homes – which includes the outdoor gardens. Homes have transformed their


gardens during the summer months to


create more space for people to meet their friends and family while maintaining social distancing. St Andrew’s Court, one of our care


homes in Hull, transformed part of the garden into a beach - fully equipped with deck chairs, sand, and beach decorations. It was a creative way to bring a bit of summer fun to everyone.


Re-thinking staff rooms Staff rooms are a valuable space for colleagues to take a break and re- charge during busy shifts. With Covid-19 restrictions in place, however, we have made changes to their design to incorporate social distancing, including new separation screens. We have introduced new guidelines,


which means all staff must change uniforms before and after shifts have ended – and we have therefore introduced new changing areas for colleagues.


TCHE


Tracey Carter


Tracey Carter is a senior quality manager for dementia care at Exemplar Health Care. Tracey is responsible for ensuring that Exemplar Health Care’s 32 care homes have dementia-friendly living environments and that colleagues receive the right training to be able to support people living with dementia in a person- centred way.


50 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com • April 2021


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