It’s all in the design! Dementia and the dining experience

Mealtimes are one of life’s simple pleasures; a pleasure that cannot be underestimated. The environment in which we eat, the way food is presented, and the company in which it is eaten, all have a role to play in the satisfaction and enjoyment of our meal. However, many aspects of a dining room that often go unnoticed can have a huge impact on the mealtime experience for residents living with dementia. With some 70 per cent of care home residents having either dementia or severe memory problems, dining room  design is therefore key. 

Whether a refit, a new build, or simply making changes to an existing dining room, there are some good rules of thumb to bear in mind that can have a positive impact and make a real difference to the overall dining experience for somebody living with dementia. Too many stimulations and distractions can be overwhelming, which prevents an enjoyable dining experience, in turn reducing the opportunity for good nutritional intake, which can affect quality of life.

How to create the right ambience and environment