Living in a flat can offer comfort, security, and a sense of community, but for someone living with dementia, it can also present unique daily challenges.
As memory, orientation, and processing skills begin to change, a once-familiar environment can suddenly feel confusing, even frightening. In multiple occupancy properties, where residents share spaces, routines, and expectations, it’s essential to think about how our built environment and behaviour can better support those with cognitive impairments.
For people in the early stages of dementia, independence often remains important. Many still wish to live alone or with a partner, and being in a flat, close to amenities and with neighbours nearby, can offer that ideal middle ground.
However, the design of communal spaces can unintentionally create anxiety. Identical looking corridors, lack of natural light, or unclear signage can lead to disorientation. Someone may leave their flat and become unsure which door leads back home. Panic can set in quickly when the environment feels unfamiliar.
Simple changes can make a significant difference. Colour coded floors, large flat numbers, and personalised door signs (like a photo or a coloured wreath) can help someone with dementia feel more confident moving through shared spaces. These aren’t just accessibility features, they’re expressions of dignity.
Another common issue is the feeling of being unsafe or vulnerable. For someone who sometimes forgets whether they’ve locked the door or switched off the oven, anxiety can build. Living in close proximity to others can increase stress if unexpected noise, unfamiliar faces, or building works aren’t communicated clearly. Fire alarms or loud music in shared spaces can be startling and disorienting.
That’s where compassionate neighbours come in, where there is a rare opportunity to build micro-communities and spaces where people can gently look out for one another. A small “hello” in the lift, offering to walk someone back to their door, or simply checking in if post is piling up can all help someone living with dementia feel seen and supported.
What can managing agents do?
Managing agents and residents’ groups can play a big part, too. Building maintenance staff can be made aware of vulnerable residents, and where appropriate, trusted neighbours can be listed as emergency contacts. Providing clear, jargon free notices and avoiding last-minute changes to routines – like bin collection days or access codes – helps reduce stress and supports cognitive stability.
One resident living with early-onset dementia shared:
“Some days I leave my flat and forget which floor I’m on. But when a neighbour says ‘Hi, I think you live on the next floor up’, it brings me back. I feel safer when I know someone is looking out for me.”
Living well in a flat with dementia is entirely possible, but only when the environment is supportive and the community is inclusive. By building awareness, showing patience, and making small adjustments, we can help ensure that every resident, regardless of age or ability, feels secure, respected, and truly at home.
