From Spaces to Sanctuary: Architectural Strategies for Dementia-Inclusive Design

Australia faces a growing challenge in providing supportive environments for those living with dementia. Many spaces fail to address cognitive needs, leading to confusion, anxiety and increased safety risks. Poor wayfinding, overwhelming layouts, and inadequate lighting can make everyday navigation difficult. Inclusive design gives us a framework to address these shortcomings and create environments that support individuals with varying abilities, including those with dementia. 

From Spaces to Sanctuary: Architectural Strategies for Dementia-Inclusive Design explores how architects and designers can implement inclusive design principles to create environments that enhance the well-being of people living with dementia while also improving overall healthcare outcomes. Simple yet effective design strategies, such as reducing visual clutter, using clear and consistent signage, and incorporating calming colour schemes, can significantly improve the user experience for those with cognitive impairments.

Gerflor’s DSDC-accredited floor and wall solutions provide architects with reliable options for creating safe, dementia-friendly environments. Products such as Taralay Impression, Premium, Creation, Mural Plus and Tarasafe H2O are specifically designed to adhere to key dementia-friendly principles.