PROJECTS


Feeding the senses Exploring the impact of sensory rooms on care home residents with dementia


R


esidents of the dementia suite at a Surrey care home have had their lives transformed by a new


sensory room created by a leading design researcher from Kingston University. The facility at Coombe Hill Manor


care home, part of the Signature Group, was co-designed by Dr Anke Jakob in collaboration with staff and families of residents.


It uses multi-sensory, immersive


technology to create a space that is specifically tuned to the needs of people living with dementia. “I was approached by the care home


team who were keen to transform an under-used lounge into a space where residents living with dementia could relax and enjoy activities they can manage,” Dr Jakob explains. “The elements we’ve incorporated


into the design are particularly suited for people in later stages of dementia, when activities requiring more cognitive abilities become challenging. “Although cognition may be


deteriorating, a person with dementia can still relate to emotional and sensory memories.” The room, which was opened by


mhdf magazine > 9


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27