Simon Hutton, Partner at property and construction consultancy, Ridge and Partners LLP (Ridge), explains the factors care providers must consider when upgrading or refurbishing their properties for dementia care.
Increasing costs and tighter regulations are some of the biggest issues facing care home owners and managers today, together with increasing demand for specialist care facilities. Many providers are looking for expert guidance on how best to manage their properties and importantly how to future proof them as much as possible to save both time and money in the long run. Ridge works with a number of care providers to improve and upgrade facilities. As well as upgrading older properties, we also work with providers to create more innovative, bespoke and modern facilities. We frequently come across the same considerations and challenges.
Consider Care Quality Commission (CQC) recommendations
CQC feedback is often central to a decision to refurbish a property. For example, we recently worked with one provider to update all of its en suite facilities, replacing shower pods with wet rooms. This reduced the likelihood of residents tripping, making the room more streamlined and removing potential hazards – a detail that was noted in a subsequent CQC inspection.
Cater for families
Spending quality time with loved ones is central to residents’ wellbeing. Increasingly our clients are looking to replicate a hotel feel that also feels like home. A well thought out design should reflect a 
lifestyle in which residents’ families are able to visit comfortably. Reworking space to include guest rooms that allow for overnight stays, private dining areas and guest bathroom facilities provide a welcoming environment which families enjoy visiting.
Explore technology
Undeniably, maximizing on advances in technology is a growing area not just within the care sector. The use of technology has revolutionised how care homes are providing a superior and, more importantly, safer environment. Many of our clients are moving towards wireless nurse call technology, using a WIFI system to allow residents to call for assistance. Whilst pendants are becoming much smaller and more discreet, we also have the technology to link them to the building itself, meaning when residents reach certain areas such as lifts or doors, a member of staff is notified – ideal for residents with dementia.
Design for dementia
With demand for dementia care on the increase, consideration for this must be built into all design and construction. We work closely with our clients to agree an approach that caters for residents with dementia, but also offers a desirable place for all. For example, the consideration of a balcony. An addition that would require significant fencing if used by residents with dementia, which may create a claustrophobic feel for other users. Signage, colours and finishes are also elements to be explored carefully. Techniques including using pictorial signage and colour coordinated floors are both reassuring and enable residents to remember where they are.
Choose the right partner
Work with a property and construction partner that is experienced within the health and care sector. Refurbishing a care home requires its own special considerations, different to many other refurbishment projects – from maintaining an operational care home, with minimal disruption to residents, to understanding industry expectations and ensuring recommendations are in line with current CQC regulations.
For more information, visit www.ridge.co.uk
