Design Decision Factsheet

1. Produce products that engage semantic memory. That is: the things that you intuitively know and understand without having to remember when you know it from. A good example is knowing that the sky is blue. Semantic memory involves general world knowledge that we have accumulated throughout our lives, such as facts, concepts, and meanings. This type of memory is not tied to personal experiences or specific events but rather to common knowledge and tends to be more resilient in dementia.

2. Produce products that encourage user participation, allow the user agency and self-determination and encourage independent exploration.

3. Can be accessed and used without training by carers.

Engaging semantic memory, encouraging user participation and agency, and ensuring ease of use for carers are all aligned with best practices in dementia care. This approach not only caters to the cognitive and emotional needs of individuals with dementia but also supports carers in delivering effective and compassionate care.

Benefits

For Users: Enhances engagement, autonomy, and cognitive stimulation.
For Carers: Simplifies their role in facilitating activities, reducing stress and workload.
For Care Settings: Promotes a more dynamic and interactive environment, improving the overall care quality.

 

Sentimental Seaside Puzzle

The subject matter of the image has been selected for its cultural reminiscence and familiarity.
Elements in the design can be used as conversation starters.
The completed image is printed on the base of the tray, allowing users to compare pieces directly without having to rely on short term memory to refer back to a lid.
Image is purposefully designed to include a diverse range of people and activities to be as inclusive as possible.
Use of strong contrasting colours helps with matching.
Most pieces contain a distinct image to help with matching and orientation.    
We minimise the use of black and very dark colours because they can be interpreted as a void or space.
All the pieces are the same shape and size with smooth edges to aid with completion and help with any dexterity issues such as arthritis etc. Compared to traditional jigsaw puzzles, it’s easier to visualise the placement of the piece. Even if an incorrect position is chosen, it will still fit and foster a sense of achievement.

Sturdy wooden construction for durability.

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Premium Adult Colouring Book

Our high-quality colouring book features images of familiar vintage items and scenes, designed to inspire cultural reminiscence and serve as conversation starters.
An established adult pastime this book not only provides enjoyment but also acts as a tool for social and cognitive engagement.
The images range from simple to complex to support a variety of interactions, depending on mood and ability.
The book has been designed with dignity in mind, resembling a glossy coffee table magazine so it won’t look out of place in a living room setting.
There’s no wrong way to pick up the book, as it’s been designed with two appealing ‘front’ covers.
High-quality paper with one design per page minimizes confusing bleed-through.

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The Curiosity Box

Designed to encourage a sense of intrigue from the outside with a high-quality, vintage-style box.
The contents are designed to be intriguing, familiar, or both, with strong, contrasting colours to aid in identification and use.
The objects have been deliberately chosen to allow interaction possibilities with each other — for example, buttons can be threaded onto the string or placed in the purse.
Includes our own design of nature-themed tea cards to help start conversations.
This product has the potential to be user-initiated if left within their field of vision, promoting empowerment.
Can help, anecdotally, to reset and distract difficult behaviours, such as continually 'wanting to go home'.
Designed with dignity in mind, so it does not look out of place in a domestic setting.
The contents can be supplemented with other familiar or interesting items, but avoid precious items as they may go missing.
Anecdotally encourages independent interaction with other residents in a care home setting; they may give away or swap items, encouraging interaction and independence.