Dementia has unfortunately affected most people in some way or another. Whether or not they have personally reached a vulnerable age, or have a loved one who has experienced it, dementia is a human condition that should be taken seriously by all.

This is where architects and designers come in. It's important for architects to plan ahead and design homes, hospitals and aged care facilities to accommodate the rise of those dealing with dementia. Creating 'dementia-friendly' environments means ensuring flexibility and prolonging the life cycle of a building and its products.

Floors can work together with other interior elements such as colour, lighting and signage to create clear way-finding signals which aid in orientation and offer a visual comfort for patients. They can also contribute to reduced anxiety and stress levels of patients who may be experiencing changes to their sense of sight, such as a loss of peripheral vision.

As a manufacturer of vinyl floor and wall coverings that are specified in healthcare applications, Polyflor understands how important integral surfaces are in promoting wellbeing within an environment. Polyflor's products can be utilised to create a stylish, relaxed and personal atmosphere so that occupants feel right at home. The goal is to make the space feel far from clinical. An authentic reproduction of timber, like the Polysafe Wood fx PUR range is a safe and slip resistant flooring option that would cater to dementia residents with a wide range of needs.

Polyflor is committed to providing relevant product guidance to specifiers and end users in the specialist care sector and recommend flooring solutions that are suited for use within dementia-lead facilities.