Vision changes are part of the normal aging process. In fact, one study found that 75% of people over the age of 75 had significant vision challenges. But for people with dementia, visual impairments can be disorienting, adding to their confusion and frustration. Using color is a simple and inexpensive way to enhance perception for seniors in memory support care.
Color deficits are prevalent in patients with dementia. One recent study suggested that a simple online color vision testing could possibly be incorporated to improve accuracy of early diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies, a specific type of dementia. Another study found that the RGB-vision plate test could be an effective tool for screening for Alzheimer’s Disease.
How are colors used in memory support care?
One of the easiest ways retirement communities can improve dementia care services is by changing the color of their dishes. At Country Meadows Retirement Communities, our dining rooms use blue plates to help residents with dementia enhance visual perception and stimulation. Research found that food consumption increased 25% simply by changing the plate color. The contrast of the uniform color makes the meal look more appealing, assists with choice, helps distinguish the food from other objects, reduces visual distractions and creates the resident’s own space to focus on their plates versus their neighbor’s-overall increasing their appetite and boosting nutrition. This can be especially helpful for dementia patients with visual agnosia, or the inability to recognize familiar objects.
Another way color can be incorporated into memory support care is through the use of black doormats. Many dementia patients perceive the dark doormat as a deep hole, something that may be dangerous and should be avoided. Placing a black doormat at outside entrances, and avoiding them at personal entrances, can help provide subtle directional support.
Using contrast to define objects is a design strategy that can help with orientation challenges, enhancing the person with dementia’s independence. Similarly, a lack of contrast, say in a carpet and a vinyl floor that are close in color, can make transitions smoother and walking more confident. Extreme contrasts, however, can result in afterimages or a disconcerting feeling and should be avoided.
Repeating colors builds associations. For example, a door to the bathroom that is a different color from the door to a closet or the bedroom can make it easier for residents in memory support care to remember how to get to the toilet.
Memory support care at Country Meadows Retirement Communities
We are proud of the person-centered care at all levels of care provided in our communities. Blue plates are just one part of the comprehensive memory support care offered in safe and secure memory support neighborhoods at all of our Country Meadows Retirement Communities campuses in Pennsylvania and Frederick, Md.
The innovative Tover Table is an interactive game table that engages residents with dementia. The programs offer games with colorful patterns, designs and familiar objects projected onto a table that bounce, dance and move about for participants to touch. This play with purpose reduces restlessness and symptoms of sundowning, increases alertness and promotes social interactions. Check out the video or schedule a tour today to see how it works!
We have also embraced the Validation Method, an approach to communicating with empathy that enhances relationships between memory support residents and family, caregivers and staff.
Learn more about how Country Meadows helps seniors with dementia through the challenges and joys of daily living . Call or schedule a tour today! Our co-workers are here to help.
Country Meadows
