Dementia design
Maintaining independence Carefully designed signs in corridors or on cupboards can help maintain residents’ independence, carefully guiding towards bathrooms, the dining area, and bedrooms, or to where the tea and biscuits are stored in the kitchen. But some people living with dementia lose the ability to read; for others, English isn’t their first language, and the apparently universal male and female signs of circles with crosses and arrows are not understood by everyone. So to be truly inclusive, pictures and symbols which respect cultural and social differences should be used, keeping the number of signs to a minimum so they are not intrusive or distracting. They should however be tonally contrasting. Tonal contrast is the difference between
how much light is reflected from surfaces. Light reflective values between critical surfaces such as a wall and floor, or a step and its edge for instance, should have a difference of at least 30 points to help residents see and find their way. High tonal contrast between critical surfaces helps residents with ageing eyesight ‘see’ a room, distinguish between walls and floors, and find doors and handrails more easily so that they can confidently navigate around the home.
Case study: Nazareth House Cheltenham Nazareth House Cheltenham in Gloucestershire offers care for up to 63 residents, including respite, palliative, and dementia care. We worked with the home to update its facilities with a design scheme that reflected its spiritual ethos with a refurbishment that meant minimal disruption to residents and staff and would transform how individual bedrooms and communal spaces could be used and enjoyed. Through carefully selected colour schemes, patterns, and bespoke joinery, the design harmonised the home’s spiritual heritage with its commitment to the highest standards of modern care for all its residents and their differing needs. The reception desk, with its carved arches reminiscent of a vaulted roof, pays homage to Gothic Christian architecture and the ethos of the Sisters of Nazareth, who run the home. Set in a serene space, the reception desk contrasts with the pale faux limestone floor, which is simple to clean and maintain. It is also easy for elderly patients to see clearly, and providing those with failing eyesight and cognitive skills, a sense of perspective, the dimensions of the space, and making it safer for them to walk
October 2024
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com through the reception area. Throughout the home, a soft colour
palette was used to create a homely feel. Careful use of feature lighting and the bold accent colour of turquoise updated the overall design, making the home feel more contemporary. These principles were also used in the bedrooms at Nazareth House. Each room offers furniture, specialist beds, and finishing touches that enhance independent living, allow staff to care with ease, and prove welcoming to visitors. To help residents living with visual impairment, or dementia-induced loss of depth perception, navigate their way more easily around the home, tonally contrasting colours were used in furniture, chair upholsteries and between walls and floors to create clear differences between critical surfaces.
As a general principle, when designing for dementia, furniture in contrasting tones helps people identify and use chairs or tables safely. Our designs use high tonal contrast and a range of fabrics and piping in varying colours so that armrests and handles are clearly visible, making it easy for people to get in and out of chairs. Mixed cloth and vinyl chair covers provide ambience for residents and easy maintenance for staff. Modern fabrics are waterproof, compliant with health and safety standards, and hygienic. All upholstery fabrics – including curtains – should have simple designs, such as large checks. Heavy stripes and patterns should be avoided; swirls can become confusing and potentially frightening. Fabrics and soft furnishings must also comply with commercial fire regulations
and British Standards. These standards are higher than domestic dwellings because care homes have large amounts of electrical equipment, which increases the risk of fire and the potential for accidents is higher. The aim is to keep residents safe.
Conclusion
Designing for dementia is a complex process. Modern design principles are based on five core outcomes: ease residents’ decision-making; reduce their anxiety; retain their independence; encourage daily living and social interaction; and keep them safe.
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Elizabeth Butcher
Elizabeth Butcher is head of marketing at care home provider Blueleaf Care. She has over a decade’s experience in health and social care including Kent County Council’s commercial care division and Tarket Flooring.
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