A Home From Home For People Living With Dementia

A traditional tea room has been recreated in the heart of a Beverley based care home as part of a refurbishment programme aiming to create a familiar environment for residents and the families of people living with dementia.

The Old School House, which is run by East Riding of Yorkshire Council, specialises in caring for people with advanced dementia, but when first built 10 years ago, could have not anticipated the future needs of this client group.

Research has assisted the team to design significant parts of the building to provide safe but familiar surroundings that are associated with good memories.

Colour has been used to improve orientation for residents by providing contrast between spaces and a clearer identity for each room, while homely finishing touches, such as coving, have been added.

Prior to the start of this improvement project there was a clinical and homogenous feel to the home and there were signs of general wear and tear. With continued investment by the council and considered decoration throughout the communal areas the home has been given a new lease of life.

With the donation of over 50 vintage teapots the dining room has been transformed into a traditional tea room which provides a calm and reassuring place to share a cup of tea and a chat.

Councillor Harrap, council portfolio holder for adult and carer services, said:

“The aim of this improvement project is to demonstrate to residents that they are cared for and respected by providing them with a suitable home in which to live.”

“It is really important that residents, and their friends and family, can spend time together in a homely environment and this project is helping to reinforce that need.”

“Anything that can be done to care for, and make things a little easier, for those who are in the later stages of dementia can only be a good thing.”