Memory-friendly design in kitchen

Working with the elderly and how to make your day together successful:

Memory-friendly design in kitchen

We want to openly share with the family members of the elderly some ideas about the ways you can make your day successful. This time, in our section: Working with the elderly, we talk about how to apply memory-friendly design in the kitchen.

Memory-friendly design is an approach to designing spaces and products that consider the needs and abilities of individuals with memory impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Here are some ways memory-friendly design could be applied in a kitchen:

1. Clear labelling: Clear and concise labelling of cabinets, drawers, and appliances can help individuals with memory impairment locate items and understand where things belong.
2. Contrasting colours:Using contrasting colours for different elements, such as countertops and cabinets, can help individuals with memory impairment differentiate between different components.
3. Simple layout: A simple and intuitive layout can make it easier for individuals with memory impairment to navigate the kitchen. For example, the refrigerator, stove, and sink should be located linearly with minimal obstructions.
4. Safety features: Installing safety features, such as non-slip flooring, smoke detectors, and stove knob covers, can help prevent accidents and injuries in individuals with memory impairment.
5. Consistent design: A consistent design throughout the kitchen can help individuals with memory impairment recognize the space and feel more comfortable using it.
6. Visual aids: Including visual aids, such as pictures or symbols, can help individuals with memory impairment understand the function of different appliances and tools and help them remember how to use them.
7. Task lighting: Adequate task lighting can help individuals with memory impairment see what they are doing and perform tasks more safely and efficiently.

In summary, memory-friendly design can be applied in a kitchen using clear labelling, contrasting colours, a simple layout, safety features, consistent design, visual aids, and task lighting. These features can help individuals with memory impairment navigate the kitchen more easily and feel more comfortable using the space.