Dementia


not reflect this too. Rather than expecting a person to leave


behind the routines and experiences that shaped them, homes may look at ways of incorporating those familiar aspects of life back into the environment; whether through gardening, outdoor activities or even introducing animals such as chickens into the grounds. In these situations, the role of the staff team is to help support and sustain the environment alongside the people living there. This can help create a atmosphere of purpose and shared connection for people living and working in care homes alike.


Rebuilding independence through environment One lady living at Heanton had experienced a long and complex journey following health challenges and a misdiagnosis. After years of being misunderstood by services, she came to the home, where the team understood not only her needs, but who she was as a person. Prior to arriving at the home, she


had been supported within what had become an increasingly unreasonable care arrangement, as previous environments had struggled to meet her needs safely and consistently. Her case also raiseed wider questions


around dignity and quality of life within complex care; how can a person truly live, regardless of condition or diagnosis, while being constantly observed by multiple people around the clock? The environment around her at the home


was adapted to promote independence, familiarity and emotional safety. Two bedrooms were transformed into a private ‘granny-flat’ style living space, giving her the safety she needed at a time when living alongside others had become increasingly difficult and distressing for her. The environment was created within just


seven days, and she was able to move in and be supported by one dedicated carer within the home who she was able to get to know, trust and build a meaningful relationship with. With time, consistency and the right


support, she gradually reconnected with her identity and independence. Today, she once again lives in her own home, leading a life built around choice, autonomy and freedom outside of formal care.


Training, leadership and organisational culture Rather than viewing risk avoidance as the primary measure of good care, many


providers are increasingly balancing safety alongside autonomy, emotional wellbeing and quality of life. This can require a significant change in mindset particularly when supporting people whose communication or behaviour may appear unpredictable. It also requires investment in team


training and leadership. Understanding behaviour as communication relies heavily on observation, consistency and relationship-based care. Teams must feel confident identifying patterns, recognise triggers and respond flexibly to changing emotional needs. Environmental approaches are therefore


most effective when supported by a wider organisational culture that values a continuation of life. This is particularly relevant as social


care providers continue to face increasing pressures across the sector. Rising complexity of care needs, workforce pressures, hospital discharge challenges and limited specialist placements all place growing demands on care environments that were not necessarily designed with these needs in mind. At the same time, expectations around


quality of life within care settings continue to evolve. Families increasingly want reassurance that their loved ones will not simply be kept safe but supported to continue living recognisable lives.


The future of complex dementia care environments Environmental design is set to play an increasingly important role in how providers sustain placements, preserve dignity and create facilities that can adapt around the person rather than expecting them to adapt around the physical setting. While specialist design features and large refurbishments


42 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com October 2026 Rafaella Faccio


Rafaella Faccio is part of the communications and community engagement team at Evolve Care Group, with a passion for advocating for social care and meaningful change across the sector. She is committed to sharing stories that celebrate the people, relationships and moments of connection that make a difference to those living and working in care.


can be valuable, many of the most effective changes are often relatively small and deeply personal, shaped around understanding the individual rather than applying one standard model of care. This may also require a shift away from prioritising purely hotel-style environments toward creating spaces that genuinely reflect the realities, routines and emotional needs of the people living within them. Sometimes, the most significant changes


are not the largest or most expensive, but the ones that allow someone to remain connected to who they are, which could in some cases be as straightforward as painting a wall.n


unai - stock.adobe.com


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