We believe that at the heart of quality care is a holistic appreciation of well-being and the external factors that impact us all. Our surroundings play a big part in that – just as social activities help to connect us, a harmonious home builds a sense of comfort and safety – crucial for adults living with dementia and complex physical and mental health conditions. This thinking has inspired the renovation plans for Alderbrook, ensuring that the building is not only structurally sound but feels like home.
A series of internal alterations were first on the list to meet building regulations, shortly followed by an updated floor plan which closely considered how residents and staff will move around the home. With this in mind, Alderbrook was designed to include lots of storage, providing a place for equipment such as hoists and lifting swings to ensure medical items encroach less upon personal spaces. This decision was intentional and works on both a practical and emotional level.
As conditions such as dementia can make it difficult to carry out certain tasks that help to retain independence, reducing clutter and the presence of unusual items keeps spaces peaceful and safe, while removing unfamiliar objects that could cause confusion. The fit-out also comprises quality equipment that is technologically advanced. The air mattresses at Alderbrook start at 30kg making them suitable for smaller, more frail residents. This small detail means that lighter residents can be turned easily in bed and cared for lovingly in less intrusive ways that protect their dignity.
Similarly, Alderbrook’s electronic Medicare system automates and tracks the daily running of the home, alongside storing residents’ individual care plans and operating the nurse call bell. This software provides reports and insights at the touch of a button, adding an additional layer of safety and efficiency to the running of the home, which in turn creates a more streamlined and accurate process.
Turning attention to the design aspects of Alderbrook – the interior has been styled to feel modern, contemporary and inviting. Airy spaces that flood in natural light are intended to help regulate mood and provide access to secure landscaped gardens that encourage time in nature. The colour palette throughout the interior speaks to the great outdoors with soft hues of grey, blue, muted reds and green – creating a sense of calm for staff, residents and visitors.
While appreciating that prioritising medical and personal care remains paramount, we believe that subtleties in our surroundings impact us all more than we know. If we can create a harmonious setting in which staff and residents feel happy and comfortable to live and work – we are closer to achieving a calm, cohesive and loving home – the ultimate ambition for us all at Alderbrook.
