Last Updated on September 20, 2022
Experts from the University of Stirling has created a new tool to support families, businesses, and professionals to make homes, premises, and public places more accessible to an ageing population and those living with dementia.
The Environments for Ageing and Dementia Design Assessment Tool (EADDAT) combines the latest research on designing for cognitive change with the expertise of leading architects based at the University’s Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC). It replaces DSDC’s Dementia Design Audit Tool which was first developed in 2008 and has influenced the design of care buildings worldwide.
Following successful trials by Transport for London and Kirklees Council, EADDAT is now available to those seeking to make homes, restaurants, cafes and public buildings more accessible.
People living with dementia perceive things differently. For example, a black mat placed in the doorway of a shop may be perceived as a hole in the ground, which can make some people living with dementia fearful of crossing the threshold.
Lesley Palmer, Chief Architect at DSDC, said, ‘Two thirds of people with dementia in the UK live at home, in their community and it is a requirement that supermarkets, pharmacies, and other public places make reasonable adjustments to enable everyone to user their facilities.
‘Research has demonstrated that dementia design can sustain independence and support quality of life for people with dementia. Additionally, research tells us that age-friendly environments can help foster healthy and active ageing by building and maintaining cognitive capacities across the course of our lives. This is increasingly more important as the global population is ageing.
‘This groundbreaking new tool is designed to be more accessible and covers an array of building types. Whether you are a person living with dementia, a small business owner or commissioning a new care home, there is a version of EADDAT available to support you.’
EADDAT provides practical solutions and guidance on how the design, layout, and furnishing of buildings and environments can make it easier for older people and people living with dementia to use places and spaces.
The Tool is made up of three tiers – Tier 1 and 2, with Tier 3 still in development – with each one reflecting the scale of intervention required. Tier 1 is the entry-level, created specifically for those wanting to make small changes to the home or in a small business, and is available free of charge. Tier 2 covers a wider range of building types and is suitable for people living not only at home but in business, healthcare settings, and other local organisations.
Each tier supplies a complete user guide, assessment checklist, case studies, and best practice examples. There is also the option to receive an official audit and accreditation from DSDC.
Kirklees Council is the first local authority to adopt the guidance, using it to develop its own dementia design guide.
Transport for London has also included the Tool in its new Sustainable Development Framework, which measures environmental performance on construction projects and promotes best practice in the property sector.
Ms Palmer added, ‘Environments for Ageing and Dementia Design Assessment Tool (EADDAT) reflects the advances in our understanding of dementia design and empowers everyone to make a change and receive recognition for their efforts, no matter how small.’
EADDAT is available from the DSDC website.
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