West Yorkshire introduces ‘dementia-ready’ criteria for new housing

The group is also looking at how to incorporate the measures in its 170,000 existing homes across the region.

The 10 criteria for dementia-ready housing are:

1. A front door that is easy to find, day or night: this could be through different coloured front doors, or adding other distinctive features such as wall-hung planters.
2. Step-free access to all doors for new homes: falls are more common for those with dementia. Without a step, people can get outside more easily.
3. Internal decoration that avoids confusion: dementia can change perception so bold patterns, stripes and highly contrasting floor tones may cause problems.
4. Easy to find bathroom: being able to find the toilet easily, especially during the night, helps people to retain independence and dignity.
5. Bathroom locks to aid rescue: falls in the bathroom are common and being able to get help quickly is vital. Doors that can be unlocked from the outside in an emergency could save a life.
6. Good level of natural light in all rooms: exposure to natural light improves wellbeing and can also help to prevent falls.
7. A view of nature in at least one habitable room: connection with the natural environment stimulates memory and can slow the progression of dementia symptoms.
8. Access to outdoor space that is easy to navigate: outdoor activity helps the brain process and coordinate. It also promotes a healthy sleep pattern.
9. Amenities and other homes within 1km: people with dementia are less likely to drive, so having amenities close is important for independence and promoting activity.
10. A dementia ‘champion’ within the housing organisation: the champion’s role is to promote understanding of dementia among their colleagues, residents and wider community.

Dementia-friendly projects

The Building Research Establishment (BRE) has developed a home project with the BRE Trust, Loughborough University, Halsall Lloyd Partnerships and Liverpool John Moores University with evidence-based design, adaptation and support solutions that allow people to age well at home.

The 100 sq m Victorian house has been adapted to cater for different types and stages of dementia. The project was designed by HLP Architects and is based on the ‘design for dementia principles’ previously developed by Dr Rob McDonald at Liverpool John Moores University and Bill Halsall from HLP Architects.

According to government data, the number of people living with dementia could rise to two million by 2050 – double the number with the syndrome today. Dementia costs the UK £26.3bn a year and is a significant challenge for the NHS.

For many people, staying in their own homes as they age helps them live a happier, healthier life.

Helen Lennon, chief executive of Connect Housing and chair of the Dementia Ready Taskforce, said: “The West Yorkshire Housing Partnership recognised the great work carried out by the taskforce in producing clear guidance for housing providers so that we can help people living with dementia stay independent in their homes and communities.”