Noise


significantly to reducing ambient noise levels. These acoustic improvements include sound proofing and building design. Sound proofing works in a combination of three ways. These are absorption (this is how sound is absorbed by materials), transmission (this is how sound carries between rooms), and insulation (this is how wall, floors and ceilings stop sound being transmitted). Building design improvements include reducing high sound surfaces such as brick, concrete, and plasterboard, removing air gaps, the use of sound absorbing curtains, wall, and floor coverings. Reducing the noise from equipment by specifying quieter air conditioning systems and personal devices with volume control will also enhance the overall environment. Specification and purchase of silent alarms and nurse call systems will further enhance the overall noise management strategy. It is estimated that 30 per cent of


excessive noise is made by care staff, so raising awareness of this plays a pivotal role, with an emphasis on using softer voices when supporting people and during activities. Engaging the people who live in the care home in noise reduction efforts fosters a sense of community responsibility, creating a collaborative and considerate living environment. Regular noise audits, coupled with feedback from people, will ensure continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving needs.


Conclusions


Care homes often face challenges related to excessive noise levels, impacting the wellbeing of those who live and work there, particularly those who are hearing- impaired. Recognising the significance of noise reduction is essential for creating a comfortable living and working environment. The noise audit process,


Loud noise interferes with concentration, disrupts sleep patterns, and may contribute to irritability and mood disturbances


involving comprehensive assessments of various sources within the care home, is a crucial first step. The subsequent engagement with people, structured through well-thought-out questions, helps gather valuable insights into the specific impacts of noise on their lives. Acknowledging that noise levels in healthcare settings, including care homes, should ideally adhere to WHO recommendations is pivotal. Excessive noise can have severe physical and mental health repercussions, particularly for older individuals, as evidenced by research on stress, agitation, and sleep disturbances. Distinguishing between good and bad noise is crucial, emphasising the importance of purposeful and therapeutic sounds. The development and implementation of a noise reduction strategy encompasses a range of measures, from staff training and quiet hour policies to acoustic improvements and noise-reducing equipment. Continuous commitment, informed by regular noise audits and resident feedback, ensures sustained improvement. Establishing a noise management team involving staff, administrators, and resident representatives is fundamental for effective implementation. Ultimately, reducing noise in care homes is not just about compliance, but about creating an environment that prioritises the wellbeing and comfort of everybody. It requires a collaborative effort, ongoing evaluation, and a commitment to creating a peaceful and supportive living and working space.


n


References 1. World Health Organization. WHO Guidelines for Community Noise. http://whqlibdoc. who.int/hq/1999. 1999


2. Algase, D. L., Beattie, E. R., Therrien, B., & Whall, A. L. The impact of the Environment and Communication Assessment Toolkit on care in assisted living facilities. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias 17(3), 147-151. 2002


3. Coss, R. G., McCrea, S. M., & Naus, M. J. Noise and quality of life. Applied Acoustics 64(3), 363-385. 2003


4. Cohen-Mansfield, J., Werner, P., Watson, V., & Pasis, S. Environmental influences on agitation: An integrative summary of an observational study. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias 31(7), 573-580. 2016


5. Dewing, Jan. Caring for people with dementia: noise and light. Nursing older people. 21. 34-8. 10.7748/nop2009.06.21.5.34.c7102. 2009


Tim Dallinger


Tim Dallinger has worked in the social care sector for 35 years as a social care worker, registered manager, and responsible individual. For the last 15 years, Tim has been a trainer and consultant for the social care sector. He delivers training courses for local authorities and the private sector on a wide range of health and social care subjects. Tim also supports care services to improve, become outstanding, and deal with regulatory enforcement action. He chairs and presents at conferences and workshops, and has an engaging, real world practical approach to the issues that face the care sector today.


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www.thecarehomeenvironment.com March 2024


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