The partnership between Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and Blackburn College has brought joy and clarity to the lives of residents living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The project, which aims to improve navigation and wayfinding within the care centre, has already shown remarkable results and has brought a sense of freedom and independence to the residents.
The idea for the project was born out of discussions between care teams at Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and some of the residents themselves. After listening to their concerns and needs, it became clear that traditional room numbers were not sufficient to help residents find their way around the building. Instead, the care centre decided to adopt a more familiar approach, using road names that would be more relatable and easier to remember.
To bring this vision to life, the care centre reached out to Blackburn College, seeking the expertise and creativity of its students and staff. The college responded with enthusiasm, offering to design and install traditional-style road signs that would be both clear and consistent across the care centre. The students and staff worked closely with the care centre to understand the needs of the residents and to design signs that would be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The new road signs have been a game-changer for the residents at Hollymount Dementia Care Centre. Gone are the days of confusion and frustration, replaced by a sense of clarity and independence. Residents can now easily navigate the building, finding their way to their favorite communal areas, such as the bar, games room, snug, lounge, and dining room. The signs have also helped to reduce stress and anxiety, allowing residents to feel more at ease and comfortable in their surroundings.
The partnership between the care centre and college didn’t stop at the design and installation of the road signs. The college also worked with the care centre to create consistent signage across the home, ensuring that residents can easily find their way around and access the services and amenities they need. This has included signs for communal areas, as well as signs for specific services and facilities, such as the hair salon and activity rooms.
The impact of the project has been significant, with residents and staff alike reporting a marked improvement in the wayfinding experience. The residents are now able to navigate the building with confidence, and are able to access the services and amenities they need without feeling lost or confused. The staff have also reported a reduction in stress and anxiety, as they are no longer having to spend time helping residents find their way around the building.
The partnership between Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and Blackburn College has also had a positive impact on the college students and staff. The project has given them the opportunity to work on a real-world problem, and to make a positive impact on the lives of others. The students have gained valuable experience and skills, and have developed a greater understanding of the needs and challenges faced by people living with dementia.
The care centre and college are already discussing ways to further expand and improve the initiative. They are considering adding additional features, such as digital signage and wayfinding apps, to help residents navigate the building. They are also exploring ways to involve residents in the design and implementation process, to ensure that the project remains resident-centered and effective.
The partnership between Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and Blackburn College is a shining example of the power of collaboration and kindness. By working together, the two organizations have been able to create a unique and innovative solution that has made a significant difference in the lives of the residents. The project has shown that even the smallest ideas can have a profound impact, and has demonstrated the importance of involving residents in decision-making processes.
As the project continues to evolve, it is clear that the partnership between Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and Blackburn College will continue to thrive. The care centre and college are committed to working together to improve the lives of the residents, and to creating a more supportive and inclusive environment. The project has already made a significant impact, and it is clear that it will continue to do so for years to come.
In conclusion, the partnership between Hollymount Dementia Care Centre and Blackburn College is a testament to the power of collaboration and kindness. The project has shown that even the smallest ideas can have a profound impact, and has demonstrated the importance of involving residents in decision-making processes. The care centre and college are committed to continuing to work together to improve the lives of the residents, and to creating a more supportive and inclusive environment. The project is a shining example of the positive impact that can be achieved when organizations work together to make a difference.