Alzheimer's sufferers often feel confused and agitated.
Alzheimer's disease can leave sufferers confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful and anxious. Familiar things suddenly become frighteningly unfamiliar, and loved ones and friends become strangers. Because recent memories are typically less accessible than old memories, design for Alzheimer's units should be traditional, comforting, safe and easy to navigate.
Lighting
Living space for Alzheimer's patients should be well lit with plenty of diffused natural lighting. Skylights and large windows covered with sheers to reduce glare and allow plenty of sunlight help combat depression and stimulate the senses. Evening and night lighting should be soft and consistent to avoid harsh shadows. Always provide nightlights or dim lighting.
Layout
Traditional furniture with no hard or sharp edges is comfortable, homey and familiar. Floor layout should provide wide, easily navigable space. Don't decorate tabletops with breakable objects. Carefully consider the layout for traffic flow. Make it easy for residents to rise from seating arrangements and go to the bathroom, the kitchen or other common destinations without furniture and fixtures creating a confusing path. Simple, widely separated seating groups with clear exit and entryways are best.
Decor
Since Alzheimer's patients often respond better to familiar memories from the past, designing Alzheimer's units in a style reminiscent of the past makes sense. Old photographs of familiar positive historical events, famous places or people can help spark memories based on visual stimulation and provide conversation starters among residents. Some good examples might include the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, the moon landing, Elvis, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing, Johnny Carson, Mount Rushmore or the Hollywood sign.
Large mirrors may confuse and frighten residents, especially in low lighting where movement or shadows can seem threatening. To fill a large space, choose a non-threatening floral image, landscape or painting of a house in a style familiar to anyone, Victorian, Colonial or a vine-covered cottage.
Color
Color has psychological implications planners should consider when designing Alzheimer's units. Many patients are depressed and easily agitated. The most soothing colors are light blues and greens. Pops of color can be added for visual stimulation. A vase of bright yellow daffodils or a few throw pillows with a pattern that includes red may serve to brighten but not overwhelm a calming color scheme. You can remove it easily if the residents become agitated. Yellow and red are cheery colors, but they can also be upsetting. Black and dark tones can be depressing. Choose a warm brown, honey or whitewash for wood tones and hard surfaces.
Visual Stimulation
Visual stimulation improves memory function and makes most people feel happier. Some visually stimulating design ideas for Alzheimer's units include live plants, inside or in window boxes visible from the inside, a large TV and a collection of nostalgic, family-friendly movies and TV shows that were popular when the residents were young. Think "Leave It to Beaver," "The Brady Bunch," "Father Knows Best" and "Hee-Haw."
Aquariums are both visually stimulating and soothing. To avoid dangerous accidents and maximize space, build a good-sized, well-lit aquarium into the wall where it cannot be knocked over. Use it as a focal point for an intimate seating or reading area. Stock the aquarium with fish of different sizes, including small, flashy ones like neon tetras to provide movement and color, and large, slow-moving fish like angelfish or bright yellow discus for balance and beauty.
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