The benefits of bright lighting, the importance of maintaining the right temperature, and how making small changes can reduce energy bills, are all addressed in a new book aimed at improving dementia care environments.
The Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC), based at the University of Stirling, and energy supplier, SSE, have worked together to produce the guide – entitled 10 Helpful hints on heating and lighting for people with dementia and their carers.
The book is designed to provide help and advice on managing heating and lighting efficiently and show how both can make a positive impact for people with dementia living in their own homes, or in care facilities.
Tony Keeling, SSE’s director of customer services and sales, said: “The increasing number of people living with dementia is a real concern for all of us. Service providers like SSE need to think hard about how they can make life easier for people with dementia.
“Our role is to provide energy to heat and light people’s homes and this new book will offer real insight into some of the small changes that can make a big difference.”
Professor June Andrews, director of the DSDC, added: “Research tells us that heat and light is very important for people with dementia and can help them live longer and safer at home, which is the overall aim.
“This book will explain the effect dementia has on people’s lives and those who care for them, and offer tips on small changes that can have a positive and lasting impact.”
The book includes an explanation of the benefits of bright lighting, which can help people with dementia move about safely, maintain hobbies, and see to eat properly. It also highlights the importance of managing the temperature in the home correctly and the detrimental effects of both a cold environment and how conversely excessive heat can cause dehydration, confusion and lethargy.
