Interior design
Traditional coffee tables may be too low for these activities, but taller tables provide a suitable surface for playing chess or assembling jigsaw puzzles comfortably. Again, offer storage nearby in which items can be kept.
By thoughtfully selecting and arranging furniture in this way, you can transform a single communal space into a versatile environment that caters to a range of activities and preferences. This will lead to residents feeling empowered to engage and enjoy their surroundings.
Bring the outdoors in
You cannot underestimate the benefits of having access to outdoor space. It has been proven that those homes with direct and accessible access to outdoor spaces are used more. Those that require stairs or lift to gain access often go unvisited. Gardens hold a special significance for individuals living with dementia. They offer tangible health benefits that can alleviate dementia symptoms. For those with Alzheimer’s disease, disruptions in their sleep-wake cycle can be challenging for all. Going into the garden each morning can play a crucial role in promoting better sleep patterns, as exposure to morning light helps regulate our internal body clock, which can be disrupted in individuals living with dementia. By spending time in the garden during the morning hours, those living with dementia can experience improved natural sleep patterns, providing relief for both themselves and their caregivers. If there is one thing you could do for
your residents – and your staff! – it is to find a way to ensure easy access to a garden space.
What about the smaller ‘destination’ areas?
By which I mean areas throughout the home that residents may want to wander to, rest at, or just take a break in. These can take the form of a couple of chairs grouped in an alcove with a small table to accommodate a cup of tea and a chat, or it could be an armchair or two facing a picture window.
There is some debate whether ‘destination’ areas such as ‘fake’ bus stops or similar are something to invest in. My advice would be to seriously consider the benefit of pretending a space is something it is not. Talk to an expert and consider your residents.
July 2024
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Most elderly individuals derive joy from participating in or observing activities happening around them
There are ways to add a sense of familiarity without having to go down the ‘pretend’ route.
Trompe l’oiel though is a no-no. Don’t
have a ‘fake’ window scene painted onto an inside wall, nor draw a realistic garden scene. This just frustrates and confuses residents. Again, there are better ways to do this. Finally, on the subject of smaller spaces that are being used – or could be used – as social spaces, remember to ensure they are not cut off from other areas though.
Want to make a change in your care home setting?
Embarking on a design journey for care home communal areas can be a daunting task, but it does not have to be tackled alone. Interior designers who specialise in healthcare and senior living environments possess the expertise and insight to translate vision into reality. I am passionate about working with residential care homes to help them unlock the full potential of their communal spaces, creating environments that inspire, uplift, and enrich the lives of residents.
The importance of good design within care home communal areas cannot be overstated. By prioritising warmth, social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and inclusivity, these spaces have the power
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