Public Spaces – Enabling Community Access
How Public Spaces Can Help or Hinder Someone Living with Dementia
Remaining active in the community is vital for wellbeing. Yet for many people living with dementia, everyday environments like supermarkets, transport hubs, or high streets can become daunting.
Everyday Barriers
Noisy, cluttered shops with poor signage
Flooring changes mistaken for steps or holes
Lack of toilets or rest points on journeys
Unclear bus stops, confusing station layouts, or unhelpful ticket machines
What Makes a Difference
Clear, legible signage with words and symbols
Predictable layouts and intuitive pathways
Quiet zones, memory cafés, and dementia-friendly community initiatives
Simple adaptations co-designed with people who live with dementia
The Bigger Picture
Dementia-inclusive design isn’t niche - it’s essential. Nearly a million people in the UK live with dementia today. Environments that work for them are easier and safer for everyone.
Partner With Me
If you’re a local authority, business, or community organisation, I can help you build dementia-friendly public spaces through consultancy, staff training, and co-production.