DEMENTIA ACCREDITATION
Tier 1:Aware is used to assess any environments including care homes. It is a free, entry-level resource that focuses on low-cost, high-impact changes. (Tier 2 builds on the fundamentals of Tier 1, offering more detailed guidance on design features that can be applied across a wider range of environments.) Tier 1 is ideal for those wanting to make minor changes that matter. The applicant is introduced to six design fundamentals to make environments more supportive of ageing and dementia. The six fundamentals for ageing and dementia-friendly design are as follows:
Fundamental 1: Promote ability This principle focuses on enhancing a person’s independence by compensating for disability. Applicants are encouraged to make adjustments that can have a big impact, such as lowering signs for those with a stooped posture, providing comfortable and easy-to-use furniture, and ensuring there is enough space for walking aids. These measures can significantly improve quality of life, help maintain activities of daily living, and enable personal choice.
Fundamental 2: Maintain independence and identity
This fundamental is about enabling people to do as much as possible for themselves, boosting confidence and self-esteem. This might involve clearer navigation, doors that are easy to open, or automatic doors that allow enough time for everyone to pass through.
Fundamental 3: Enable care for carers Many carers are themselves older or living with age-related frailty. This principle encourages applicants to consider the needs of carers by providing additional seating, resting areas, or dedicated spaces where they can wait comfortably.
Fundamental 4: Be familiar Unfamiliar environments can be disorientating for people living with dementia. Fundamental four highlights the importance of making spaces welcoming and easy to understand. Soft furnishings, personal photographs, and even familiar scents can create a homely feel, while clear signage, large clocks, and calendars help reduce confusion and support daily orientation.
Fundamental 5: Maintain interactions with others
Ageing and dementia can increase the risk of isolation, so this principle emphasises the importance of human interaction. Applicants should consider whether their premises are easily accessible to people with impaired mobility, whether staff are trained in dementia awareness, and whether social spaces are designed to encourage conversation and connection.
Fundamental 6: Accommodating preferences Everyone has unique tastes in music, films, and hobbies. The final fundamental focuses on accommodating personal preferences by ensuring the environment supports them. Someone who
20 THE CARE HOME INDUSTRY HANDBOOK 2026
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