Dementia is a disease that can lead to sensory changes, as well as complicate existing sensory issues. In this series of articles, we're looking at how people living with dementia might experience these changes to their senses, and how good design can enable them to better enjoy their spaces.

Today, we're talking about hearing.

(Also, click here to check out our article on vision.)

If you've ever struggled to follow a conversation because “everyone mumbles”, or been distressed by sudden loud noises, you can imagine how much more upsetting those experiences can be for someone living with dementia.

Our hearing declines as we age. Not all people living with dementia are older, but for those that are, the impact of this as well as their dementia diagnosis is doubly distressing.

If a person has been living with a hearing impairment prior to a diagnosis of dementia, they may experience a complex crossover of symptoms.

For some people living with dementia they may experience a heightened sensitivity to sound, or a decreased ability to filter out background noise, such as when the TV is on while they're trying to have a conversation.

Less common hearing-related conditions include:

Hyperacusis

A debilitating hearing disorder which causes increased sensitivity to certain sounds. It may include an inability to tolerate some everyday sounds, which become an unpleasant experience.

Tinnitus

The sensation of hearing a sound in the absence of any external sound. A person living with dementia may find this particularly distressing and confusing.

Auditory hallucinations

Some people living with dementia can also hear things that are not there. This can be comforting or even enjoyable for the person concerned, however, may also cause anxiety or upset for the person.

Good design can help lower the background noise of your space, so that proper attention can be given to conversation and other important sounds. There are a number of simple approaches that can assist with this.

Helpful design adaptations

• Noise can be absorbed by soft surfaces such as carpets, window dressings and fabric on furniture. Make sure when you have the option you go for upholstered furniture, carpets over hard flooring and curtains rather than blinds.
• Choose doors and cupboards that have a soft close option, or fit dampeners to avoid loud banging.
• Consider setting aside a room close to the main living area for noisy activities, or for a quiet retreat when the main area is too loud.
• Free phone apps provide a decibel meter for measuring sound levels. This is useful for assessing if noise levels are above the recommended safe level. (Aim for 35dB(A) in bedrooms, 40dB(A) in common areas and 45dB(A) elsewhere.)
• As a final resort, you may want to consider the addition of acoustic panels. These panels can be attached to the walls or ceiling and can be removed if they are no longer required.

By taking steps to manage the sources of background noise in your environment, you are giving people living with dementia the best chance to relax and respond in day-to-day situations.

Better design choices really can lead to better lives.