Page 47 - Bernardon_Housing for Aging_SOQ 08.2023

■ Wander Gardens – Like activity rooms, wander areas where staff can gather and confidentially monitor
gardens provide areas for residents to exert their residents, as described above, can help to foster an
physical abilities. Design elements like walking paths environment that encourages independence but still
– whether outdoor or indoor – allow residents to exert maintains a sense of order. Furthermore, designing
energy and fulfills their need for mobility. staff areas for safety, such as separating housekeeping
■ Stimulation – Managing stimulation within a memory closets (filled with chemical cleaning supplies that
care community is a vital element when considering its residents could mistake for something to drink) from
design. Since residents are often in different states of living areas, helps to reduce the risk hazard exposure
awareness and don’t always communicate their needs, to residents and promotes a safer, more enjoyable
it’s important to provide a balance regarding external environment.
stimulation they may experience. Focused stimulation,
such as providing activities that stimulate their long- Dementia is a truly enigmatic condition that requires flexibility
term memory, can serve and adaptability from caregivers. Bernardon can support this
need by anticipating the unpredictability of the condition and
designing for its different stages. Thinking about how memory
While physical activity and socialization are often linked,
maintaining relationships between residents and loved ones care services will be carried out in relation to other aspects of
requires an entirely different design approach. Incorporating the housing for aging community will help to ensure the best
design elements that can help to strengthen the relationship care. Even through incorporating small details like the effects
between family and residents while also alleviating hardships of lighting, visuals, acoustics, and even interior décor elements
that come along with the disease involve a variety of design like mirrors, we’re able to craft living communities that keep
features. residents comfortable and relaxed through their care.

Social Enrichment
Due to the inconsistent nature of dementia and its related
conditions, caring for a loved one can be very disconcerting
to spouses and family members. Since residents can be
lucid some days, but struggling the next, it’s vital to create
environments that can enrich relationships between the
resident and their family members, fellow residents, and staff.

■ Family and Friends – While memory care
communities encourage visitation, it’s important to
consider the complications that can come with it – for
both the visitor and the resident. Design features like
stealth corridors – which provide a secure, discreet
hallway for loved ones to use after a visit – help to
decrease separation anxiety or confusion that a
resident might experience after a visit.
■ Healthcare Staff – Healthcare professionals working
in memory care undergo extensive training in order to
work with dementia residents. In doing so, they build
a close relationship with the resident, and trust is built
between the resident and their caregiver. Including

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