Experts from the University of Stirling have created a new tool to support families, businesses, and professionals to make homes, premises, and public places more accessible to an ageing population and those living with dementia.
Lesley Palmer, Chief Architect at DSDC, said:
“Two thirds of people with dementia in the UK live at home, in their community and it is a requirement that supermarkets, pharmacies, and other public places make reasonable adjustments to enable everyone to use their facilities.
Research has demonstrated that dementia design can sustain independence and support quality of life for people with dementia. Additionally, research tells us that age-friendly environments can help foster healthy and active ageing by building and maintaining cognitive capacities across the course of our lives. This is increasingly more important as the global population is ageing.
This ground-breaking new tool is designed to be more accessible and covers an array of building types. Whether you are a person living with dementia, a small business owner or commissioning a new care home, there is a version of EADDAT available to support you.”
People living with dementia perceive things differently, for example, a black mat placed in the doorway of a shop may be perceived as a hole in the ground. This can make some people living with dementia fearful of crossing the threshold.
This is where EADDAT can help because it provides practical solutions and guidance on how the design, layout and furnishing of buildings and environments can make it easier for older people and people living with dementia to use places and spaces.
Tiers
The tool is made up of three Tiers (1,2 and 3) with Tier 3 still in development. Further details of each tier can be found below:
Tier 1 – this is the entry level Tier created specifically for those wanting to make small changes to the home or in a small business and is available free of charge.
Tier 2 – this Tier covers a wider range of building types including those in healthcare settings.
Tier 3 – this Tier is still in development but is the advanced level for health care providers.
Each Tier supplied a complete user guide, assessment checklist, case studies and best practice examples. There is also the option to receive an official audit and accreditation from DSDC.
Many organisations have already begun to adopt the guidance including the Kirklees Council and Transport for London.