Page 10 - TCHD brochure #1

TC
Orientation HD

noun - the action of orienting someone

or something relative to the points of a
compass or other specified positions.

Memory loss and the inability to retain new memories is enough of a
challenge in itself, so when someone moves from a familiar place they
may have lived in for many years, there's a high probability their new
home will always be unfamiliar. This is a major contributor to why the
environment is associated with as much as 80% of the issues faced by
some care home residents.

Successful orientation strategies help residents to do two important things
to know 'where I am now', and to assist them in confidently going to
'where I want to be'.

Where I am now....
If you're unfamiliar with your environment, and have difficulty finding your
way around, it needs to be really clear when you've arrived at your
destination. Signage plays an important role here. Over use of signage
isn't helpful, but effective signage for Toilets and residents own rooms is
essential. Our designs use LRV's to ensure appropriate contrast and
therefore visibility of the signs.

Use of effective signage to reinforce 'where I am now' is a simple way to
provide a massive benefit by boosting confidence and independence.
If this seems like an exaggerated appraisal of the benefits of a simple
sign, just imagine never being able to find a toilet when you need one.

Where I need to be....
is a more complex problem and a more involved solution but it still boils
down to the application of a little science and a good dose of common
sense. An effective way-finding strategy isn't one solution, but a number
of them working together.

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