Living Space
A safe and well-designed living space is a key part of providing the best care for people with dementia. Everyday items designed to make life easier for people with dementia really do make a difference. The Design & Technology Suite at the Dementia Centre features dozens of gadgets to help people with dementia. Good design for dementia is based upon contrast, colour and clarity. From alarms to sensors, from cutlery to beds, we showcase a wide variety of items which can improve life for people with dementia.
Bathroom design for people with dementia
The bathroom can be a dangerous place for people with dementia. Hot water, taps left running and slippery surfaces are all hazards. Contrasting colours will improve bathroom facilities as if by magic. Toilet seats, handrails and towels should all be easily identifiable. Even something as simple as soap should be a different colour from the sink it sits on.
Kitchen design for people with dementia
Making things clear always helps a person with dementia. Glass jars for tea and coffee, clear-fronted cookers and even fridges with glass doors can make a difference. You can help people with dementia make sense of identical looking cupboards by installing glass doors on units.
Bedroom design for people with dementia
Helping a person with dementia get a good night’s sleep is vital. Finding their bed may be confusing, so use contrasting bed linen and sheets to clearly define their sleeping area. Raised edges not only help prevent people falling out of bed but provide psychological support for those who had shared a bed with a partner for many years. People with dementia can be confused when they see their reflection in a mirror as they may not recognise the person who is looking back at them. The use of mirrors which can be covered or easily removed can help prevent such distress.
Living room design for people with dementia
Technology has revolutionised living room design for people with dementia. Seats fitted with pressure pads can turn on lights as you get up or sit down. Fireplaces with flame effect fires can be made from wipe-clean materials and programmed to operate at specific temperatures.
Dining room design for people with dementia
Even the way in which you set a table can improve the life of someone with dementia. Use contrasting colours for cutlery, crockery and table cloths. Heavier plates with lips are less likely to slip or spill. Ceramic or porcelain mugs and cups make drinking more pleasurable than from plastic. People with dementia need quality eating and drinking time to live a healthy lifestyle. Help them by improving their dining experiences.
