A few well thought out adaptations to the home can make life significantly easier, not to mention safer, for anyone living with dementia. Maximising light levels, use of colour contrast to draw attention to important features, clear signage, and the inclusion of safety technology can all increase a person's level of independence, helping anyone coping with dementia remain in their own home for longer.
With exactly these priorities in mind, North Ayrshire Council in Scotland have taken a lead by developing new housing designed with the specific aim of making life easier for people living with Alzheimer's Disease or other forms of dementia.
Unveiling its new development at Montgomery Court, Kilbirnie, the local authority is raising awareness on how small adjustments within the home can make a huge difference to those living with dementia and their families.
Developed by the council’s housing services in partnership with local businesses and stakeholders, the dementia-friendly show home – thought to be the first of its kind to be created by a local authority in Scotland – is now open to the public.
The houses include contrasting colours to help ensure important features standout such as doors, light switches, grab rails, toilet seats and furniture.
Also included are features such as large clocks which clearly show the time of day, and lighting is maximised, especially in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms to ensure objects are clearly visible.
Daily notice boards are available in each home.
“With an ageing population – and with this number is set to increase – our older people have indicated that they wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.
“This can be difficult for people living with dementia but there are a number of measures people can take to ensure that people with dementia can live independently for as long as possible, and we hope to raise awareness of how people living with dementia can be supported in their own home.
“This show home is just the beginning of what can be done to assist independent living for those with dementia.”
Council Deputy Leader, North Ayrshire Council
The £4.8 million development has been designed to specifically meet the needs of the older population in North Ayrshire. It features 16 one-bedroom homes within a new sheltered housing complex and an additional 8 two-bedroom amenity bungalows.
The entire development has been designed using dementia-friendly design principles, such as clear signage and contrasting colours. This ensures that the home environment is tailored to actively support independent living for those suffering with dementia.
Members of the public are welcome to visit the property by appointment, by calling housing services on 01294 324031. The show home will be open until 17 February 2017.
Source: Scottish Housing News 31/01/17
For ideas on how to modify your own home, click below to check out these articles published previously on Local Dementia Guide...
Keeping your bathroom a dementia friendly space
Dementia tips: Flood your home with light
Is your kitchen dementia safe? Take our simple test to find out.
The gadget that could save the life of someone with dementia
