Rugs and carpets which undergo oriental rug cleaning assures the adminstration of an assisted living facility for people with dementia that their residents do not catch any allergy from the dust. Also, an overlooking garden with the sweet smell of open air and ample daylight provides a positive effect on the residents’ well-being. Strolling reduces the risk of osteoporosis and gives an enjoyable experience to the patients as all their senses are stimulated — sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste. Garden paths should lead around and back to the starting position. Painted benches, garden furniture and plants must be arranged strategically for clarity and usefulness. A healthy outdoor environment should be designed simultaneously with the planning of the building facility to allow maximum use of space. Thus, in the stages of planning for such a facility, one should also take into cosideration the availability of such laborers as gardeners, area rug cleaners and the likes.
An ideal living facility for people with dementia depends upon the physical and mental support the institution provides. For the residents to perceive and understand experiences and situations, the physical environment must provide opportunities for appropriate mental assimilation. This second home should enable the client to identify himself, feel a sense of security, control and productivity, socialize with other residents and receive guests leading to a positive sense of well-being.
Architecture and interior lay out play an important role in helping residents regain manageable roles and independence within a safe and secured environment. An easy flow of passage areas with clear boundaries and the use of visual cues for appropriate place orientation aid in performing basic functions. The outdoor environment helps establish time orientation as seasons change throughout the year.
The stages of dementia require different sets of activities. The physical environment should provide meaningful opportunities and space by making every experience as therapeutic as possible. Activities done during the earlier stages of the disease such as socializing may no longer be applicable during the later parts of the illness in which more medical care is needed. Each area, therefore, must be designed to fit a desired appropriate skill, task or therapeutic activity for every stage of the disease.
