Exploring Options for Dementia-Friendly Bathroom Designs

Dementia diagnoses in the UK are at record high, with the NHS estimating that more than 850,000 people are currently affected, projected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. With numbers rising every year, it’s imperative that businesses provide facilities that cater to people with dementia, helping to make routine tasks less hazardous and overwhelming.

In this blog, we will take a closer look at the importance of dementia-friendly bathroom designs and provide practical tips for caregivers and facility managers to improve their facilities.

The Importance of Dementia-Friendly Bathrooms

Living with dementia can be extremely challenging and daily tasks that we take for granted, such as handwashing or going to the toilet, can become confusing and overwhelming.

Thoughtfully designed washrooms that are easy to navigate can reduce stress and confusion for individuals with dementia. Not only are dementia-friendly bathroom designs essential for care homes and hospitals, but they should also be considered within leisure destinations, where families and carers may take those living with dementia out on day trips. Not only will dementia-friendly facilities give families and carers comfort, but as a business, this level of inclusivity can give you a competitive advantage, showcasing your business as a leader in accessibility.  

Key Design Elements for Dementia-Friendly Bathrooms

Contrasting Colours & Lighting

People with dementia often experience visual-perceptual difficulties, so the use of contrast is important for helping them to understand their environment, avoid trip hazards and define objects clearly. Washrooms can be particularly confusing as often sanitary ware and décor is white in colour, making it difficult for users to distinguish the different elements. Help to support those with dementia undertake everyday tasks and maintain their independence for as long as possible by providing facilities in contrasting colours. For instance, a white sink against a darker countertop can clearly demarcate where the sink begins. Many commercial establishments also opt for blue and white contrasting colours, for these are known for their calming qualities.

Another key consideration in dementia-friendly design is lighting. Your washrooms should be well-lit with consistent lighting to avoid shadows, which can cause confusion and are often distressing for people with dementia. Cleverly positioned task lighting should focus on specific areas such as above the sink, shower and toilet seats to draw attention to these areas.

Clear Signage

Directional dementia bathroom posters have been proven to help provide reassurance and create a familiar environment that people with dementia feel comfortable in. Don’t forget to use colour contrast to ensure the signs are clear and easy-to-read, helping to guide and encourage independence.

Non-Slip Surfaces

People with dementia are often affected by changes in balance, spatial awareness and memory, and are therefore at a significantly higher risk of falls, with stats showing that dementia sufferers are 3x more likely to experience a serious injury and end up in hospital. For this reason, where there may be users with dementia, washroom adaptations that minimise the risk of injury are crucial. This includes non-slip flooring to provide stable footing and grab rails for additional stability.

Easy-to-Use Dispensers & Fixtures

Easy-to-use dispensers and fixtures with clear, straightforward instructions and recognisable symbols will help minimise confusion and frustration amongst people with dementia. Opt for lever-style taps and push button soap dispensers that avoid unfamiliar technology.

You should also consider ergonomic features, such as convenient height placement, minimal force requirements and comfortable grips, helping individuals with limited strength and dexterity. Unsure how to install commercial washroom fixtures in an ergonomic way? Here’s how to install washroom dispensers.

Paper Towel Dispenser

This white paper towel dispenser works in conjunction with a blue wall plate to provide a high contrast identification to aid recognition for individuals with dementia. Pair with a dementia-friendly paper towel poster.

Soap Dispenser

To ensure the best hand washing solution for those suffering from dementia, this dementia aid soap dispenser has been designed in conjunction with leading health and wellbeing experts to help create a caring and considerate washroom environment. Accompany with a colour contrasting, hand washing poster to guide the user through the hand washing process.

Toilet Roll Dispenser

Perfect for high footfall environments, the jumbo toilet roll dispenser is constructed out of high-quality metal to ensure reliability and strength for years to come.

Alternatively, if you are catering to smaller facilities, the multi-flat toilet tissue dispenser, with its contrasting colours and smooth edges, is ideal for helping to provide a calm and supportive washroom environment.

Complete your dementia-friendly bathroom design with a toilet paper sign.

Practical Tips for Caregivers & Facility Managers

Creating and maintaining a dementia-friendly bathroom requires ongoing attention and care. Here are some practical tips to ensure these spaces remain safe and accessible:

Regular Maintenance

Regularly inspect the facilities to identify and address potential hazards. This includes:

• Loose tiles or flooring that could cause trips and falls
• Signs of wear and tear on fixtures and dispensers
• Adequate lighting and functioning of all light sources

Continuous Training for Staff

Ensure that all caregivers receive regular training, including:

• Best practices for assisting individuals with dementia in the bathroom
• Proper use and maintenance of dementia-friendly fixtures and accessories
• Techniques for guiding and calming individuals who may be confused or anxious

Adapting to Changing Needs

The world is constantly evolving, and it’s important to recognise that the needs of individuals with dementia, best practices and the products to support them, may change over time. With this in mind, be prepared to:

• Modify the bathroom layout as mobility and cognitive abilities change
• Introduce new aids and accessories to maintain safety and comfort
• Stay informed about the latest advancements in dementia care and bathroom design

Designing washrooms that are safe and accessible for individuals with dementia is critical for providing a positive experience that enhances comfort and independence.

At Dudley Industries, we aim to help make washrooms a less confusing space and have created a range of dispensers that is tailored to the challenges faced by people with dementia. Browse our dementia range today or get in touch to find out more about what we offer and help we can collaborate with you to create a bathroom environment that cares for those who need it most.

For more information on Exploring Options for Dementia-Friendly Bathroom Designs talk to Dudley Industries Ltd