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.

Find out more Get in touch

Next
Next

Care Environments – More Than Just Buildings