Understanding Dementia-Friendly Environments

Dementia is a long-term brain disease that affects human beings and is associated with memory loss, impaired cognitive functions, and alteration in behavior (Padilla, 2019). For people with dementia, the environment is an essential element that shapes their lives and the way they interact with the world (Azevedo et al., 2021). Traditional treatments tend to focus on the use of medication to manage symptoms such as the use of antipsychotics to reduce aggression. However, current research shows that creating dementia-friendly environments can significantly reduce aggression, enhance engagement in purposeful activities, and even decrease the intake of psychoactive drugs (Padilla, 2019)

At BetterCare.Today, we are committed to redefining dementia care, typically focusing on enhancing environment. By designing calm, familiar, and safe spaces, and pairing them with individualized care, we provide an alternative to the traditional, medication-dependent models often seen in Western countries (Padilla, 2019).

What is a Dementia-Friendly Environment?

A dementia-friendly environment is thoughtfully designed to reduce confusion, anxiety, and disorientation while enhancing the well-being of individuals living with dementia. These spaces minimize stress and emphasize simplicity, security, and familiar cues that support independent movement. Such environments have been shown to improve orientation and encourage social interaction.

Key features of dementia-friendly environment

• Familiarity: Personalized décor tailored to the clients' specifications, such as family photographs and personal belongings. Additionally, maintaining a specified routine, such as specified bed time and waking up to promote familiarity with the environment.
• Calm Atmosphere: Soft lighting, minimal noise, and muted colors help prevent overstimulation; consequently, reducing agitation and aggressiveness.
• Safety Measures: Clear pathways, slip-resistant floors, and secure exits ensure safety without restricting movement.
• Meaningful Activities: Engaging and tailored activities promote social connection and cognitive stimulation, which are vital for mental well-being (Möhler et al., 2020).

Challenges in Conventional Care Settings

In many Western countries, dementia care environments often prioritize efficiency over individual needs. People living with dementia are frequently placed in overstimulating, impersonal settings that can worsen confusion and behavioral challenges. As a result, antipsychotic medications are commonly used to manage symptoms such as aggression, restlessness, or agitation (Padilla, 2019).

Although drugs may control certain behaviors in the short run, they fail to address the various aspects of the environment that cause stress. Another disadvantage of relying on medications is that they may cause over-sedation and reduced quality of life. This underscores the need for new care paradigms that allow for environmental considerations as well as personalized care.

How We Create Dementia-Friendly Spaces

At our facility, we recognize the transformative impact of dementia-friendly environments. Through intentional design and personalized care, we’ve created spaces where individuals feel secure, supported, and understood.

• Optimal Nurse-to-Resident Ratios: Our nurse-to-resident ratios of 1:3, 1:2, or even 1:1 ensure that caregivers can offer consistent, personalized support, even for those requiring more intensive care.
• Personalized Spaces: Residents' rooms are customized with familiar items and comforting designs to create a sense of belonging.
• Soothing Environments: Soft lighting, natural colors, and noise reduction strategies minimize overstimulation and promote calmness.
• Engaging Activities: We offer tailored activities that reflect individuals' interests and life histories, improving social engagement and reducing anxiety (Möhler et al., 2020; Azevedo et al., 2021).
• Medication Reduction: By addressing the root causes of distress through environmental adjustments and high-quality care, we've successfully reduced—and in some cases eliminated—the need for antipsychotic medications.

The Impact of a Thoughtful Environment

Studies consistently highlight the transformative power of dementia-friendly environments in improving psychosocial outcomes for individuals living with dementia. These specific areas help in avoiding situations that cause aggression, minimize confusion and provide a serene environment that enhances emotional stability and health (Marulappa et al., 2022). Implementing features such as the individual's choice of comfort, safe rooms, and clear paths help the person to have better orientation and reduced anxiety. These elements do not only enhance trust and independence but also empower individuals to maintain their dignity in their day to day lives. Meaningful environments in conjunction with the nurturing care are the key elements of effective dementia care (Azevedo et al., 2021)

Firsthand observations have also shown that individuals who display aggressive behavior often feel more at ease in familiar, dementia-friendly environments. In these settings, healthcare providers can better meet their needs through individualized attention (Healthdirect, 2024). The resulting decrease in behavioral issues often reduces the reliance on antipsychotic medications, enabling individuals to lead more meaningful lives. Families also find relief knowing their loved ones are in environments purposefully designed to support their unique needs (Marulappa et al., 2022). These spaces demonstrate that, when done right, dementia care can be compassionate, dignified, and truly life-enhancing.

References

• Azevedo, M. C. D. de, Charchat-Fichman, H., & Damazio, V. M. M. (2021). Environmental interventions to support orientation and social engagement of people with Alzheimer's disease. Dementia & Neuropsychologia, 15(4), 510-523. https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-57642021dn15-040012
• Health direct. (2024, November 7). Creating a dementia friendly environment. Healthdirect.gov.au; Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/creating-a-dementia-friendly-environment
• Marulappa, N., Anderson, N. N., Bethell, J., Bourbonnais, A., Kelly, F., McMurray, J., Rogers, H. L., Vedel, I., & Gagliardi, A. R. (2022). How to implement person-centred care and support for dementia in outpatient and home/community settings: Scoping review. BMC Health Services Research, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-022-07875-w
• Möhler, R., Renom, A., Renom, H., & Meyer, G. (2020). Personally tailored activities for improving psychosocial outcomes for people with dementia in community settings. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 8(8). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd010515.pub2
• Padilla, R. (2019). Effectiveness of environment-based interventions for people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 65(5), 514–522. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2011.002600