For almost two decades, especially since I served as night time administrator and marketing director at an Alzheimer’s campus in southern California, I’ve been focused on universal design – how to create a safe, practical, healthful, and inviting environment not only for those requiring memory care, but for anyone, even those of us fortunate enough to be well.
What could be better than an immaculate, welcoming, protective atmosphere where ever you live?
Yesterday I viewed a video about interior redesign of a dementia wing at Elmhurst, an assisted living village in England. I like much of what was chosen. I might not have chosen laminate flooring even if it looks great and is easy to clean, I don’t find it eco-friendly. I may have choosen linoleum, cork, or wood instead as there is no off gassing. These green products might be safer for falls. But I imagine there may have been budget considerations. Other than that, a fine redesign job. Based on a visual site visit, even from afar, I would consider recommending this community focused on wellness.
Note the energy of light features, especially the use of skylights and large windows, and the secure garden area. Also note the reason red prompts were chosen for the bathroom, and cerulean blue gray for the dining room plates. There is valuable information in the video at the link below.
http://www.alzheimersweekly.com/2014/09/redesigning-home-for-dementia-care.html
please don’t be shocked by the red, there is an excellent reason for the choice
Wellness Shepherd 