Bowbrook Dementia Specialist Residential Care Home Achieves DSDC Gold Award for Dementia-Friendly Design
We are all stakeholders in ageing – especially as people live longer. In a remarkable step towards a more dementia-friendly society, Bowbrook Residential Care Home has achieved the DSDC Gold Award.
Here are five reasons why Bowbrook received it:
1. Design for Independent Living
When asked about the vision, Bowbrook says the aim was “to provide the best and easiest living environment for those living with dementia”.
This vision translates into humane and safe spaces that promote independent living. The team has paid attention to every detail, from the building layout to signage. The design is made to make a meaningful impact on the lives of both residents and staff.
2. Built from Collaboration
What makes Bowbrook unique is the design journey.
DSDC Design Consultant Dominic Chu says “we collaborated closely with the client during the design evaluation process and paid attention to every aspect, from the building configuration to the material selection”.
This means that at the early development stages, the DSDC had already provided the dementia-friendly design framework with the most up-to-date knowledge and research.
3. Planned for Community
Bowbrook uses a layout that emphasises community. The residential care home combines three building blocks that resemble household units. This helps residents feel more connected to each other. The small-scale cluster setting also makes it easier for staff to care for residents.
The main entrance is located at the junction of the three blocks and includes a small shop, hair salon, and a café, which provides opportunities for residents to socialise.
4. Wayfinding and Signage
This is an open plan setting with a variety of communal spaces that meet individual preferences.
Residents can retreat to quiet and calming spaces should the environment begin to affect their senses.
The building has a well-planned wayfinding system to help residents live independently. Each household cluster has a unique colour theme and offers choices between bedroom colours.
5. Architecture in Nature
Bowbrook has created a garden path that encircles all three household blocks. This offers a peaceful and scenic route for residents to enjoy.
Each block has its own internal courtyard which provides a safe and tranquil space for residents to relax. Outdoor coat racks are available near entrances to encourage residents to spend time outdoors. There are garden activities, spaces for pets and birds, and so much more.
A Bright Future in Dementia Care
Bowbrook’s achievement sets a shining example of dementia-friendly design in residential care homes.
Their story serves as an inspiration for everyone in the field of environmental intervention of dementia care.
As we move into the future, Bowbrook says they would like more research on how assistive technology can support people with dementia to live as well as they can.
Photos: Bowbrook Dementia Specialist Residential Care Home
Written by Miki Max Fagerli-Schmidt