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  • Adapting living environments for people with dementia

Adapting living environments for people with dementia

It’s important to create engaging environments where people living with dementia can live comfortably and feel supported to maintain independence.

Adapting-living-environmentsPeople with dementia can become confused in their environment, so it’s a good idea to make everything is easily recognisable. Colour contrasts are often a quick and effective way of helping surroundings and important things to stand out – for example, try painting handrails, doors and furniture in bold colours.

Surrounding a person with photos or images that can trigger some of their favourite memories, or that are filled with engaging decorations and colours, may also be helpful. Many of Anchor Hanover’s care homes have reminiscence rooms (decorated to replicate the different eras and styles for example, with relevant artefacts, such as images, radios and TVs from a time that may feel more familiar) or hold reminiscence sessions, helping residents to relax and feel safe and connected in a way that is tailored to their individual needs.

Access to outside space is also important as it provides the opportunity for exercise, fresh air, relieves tension and anxiety, and offers personal space for reflection and privacy. Spending time outside has been shown to positively affect a person’s emotions and to improve their sense of wellbeing. It also stimulates the production of vitamin D, helping to maintain healthy muscles and bones, and offers stimulation through different colours, textures and natural smells and sounds.

Supportive environments

Adapting-living-environments-bOur care homes promote comfort, independence, and engagement. We base the layout and design of our homes on best practice guidance, including appropriate signage that is clearly worded and pictorially illustrated.

We use contrasting colours to help make our buildings more supportive and easier to navigate for those with impaired memory and high levels of anxiety. We focus on creating a homely atmosphere to promote feelings of safety and familiarity, as well as engaging themed areas based on what residents would like to see, that encourage engagement, nostalgia, and reminiscence. We encourage residents to create a ‘home-from-home’ atmosphere in their bedrooms by bringing their personal belongings into the home.

Most of our care homes have private, secure gardens with easy access and pathways residents can follow safely. In some locations we have created paths and areas that are circular so that residents going for walks will return to a familiar entrance, rather than reaching a dead end in the path which may be confusing to them.

Related information about dementia

Reframing Dementia - a guide to living with dementia

Reframing Dementia - a guide to living with dementia

As a nation we are remarkably reluctant to think and talk about dementia, but a conversation is a vital starting point to prepare ourselves for what might come in later life. Read our guide.

What is dementia?

What is dementia?

Dementia is the term used to describe a group of symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by specific diseases and conditions. Find out more about dementia.

Spotting the early signs of dementia

Spotting the early signs of dementia

It is important to understand that dementia affects people in different ways. Find out more about the possible symptoms and signs of dementia to be aware of.

How to start positive conversations about dementia

How to start positive conversations about dementia

Discussing dementia can seem like a daunting prospect but using the right questions and conversation starters can help families begin important conversations in a positive manner.

How to get a diagnosis of dementia

How to get a diagnosis of dementia

There is advice and support available for people with dementia, a diagnosis can ensure you have access to the right information to help you plan for your future.

Supporting loved ones living with dementia

Supporting loved ones living with dementia

Being diagnosed with dementia can be a daunting and upsetting time, and the support of close family and friends is invaluable – in addition to knowing which experts to turn to for support.

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia can be hard. Often a person can have trouble expressing themselves, which may lead to frustration as a result.

Dietary recommendations for people with dementia

Dietary recommendations for people with dementia

Sometimes people with dementia can have a poor appetite or lose interest in food altogether. Find out more about the different ways you can help boost appetite and encourage a person to enjoy meals.

Activities for people living with dementia

Activities for people living with dementia

People living with dementia should have access to a wide range of carefully considered individual and group activities, with plenty of opportunity to socialise with others. Find out about the importan

Adapting living environments for people with dementia

Adapting living environments for people with dementia

It’s important to create safe and supportive environments where people living with dementia can live comfortably, maintain their independence and not feel restricted in any way. Find out more.

Dementia care options

Dementia care options

If a person’s dementia means that they need specialist dementia care or support and are no longer able to live independently in their own home, there are lots of different care options available.

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