HEALTHCARE, WELL-BEING & HEALING ENVIRONMENT
We emphasize the development of our products in relation to the quality of the indoor environment and the individual using and occupying the space. By focusing on safety, hygiene and well-being, it is our ambition to make a positive contribution to the indoor environment and the health of the individual. we do this by offering environmentally responsible products and by paying special attention to such aspects as allergy prevention, acoustic qualities, emissions and design of the floor coverings.
Forbo Sphera has very low emissions of <10μg/m3 after 28 days, is phthalate free and, also, offers colourways with high light reflectance values (LRV) ensuring that it can contribute to a healthy indoor environment. Its SMART-top surface treatment resists stains and is easy to clean ensuring safe and hygienic floors.
WHAT IS A HEALING ENVIRONMENT?
The essence of the modern vision on healthcare is creating a ‘healing environment’. Meaning that the facilities and atmosphere within a care or cure environment can contribute to the well-being and recovery of the patients. Hospitality, homeliness, safety… Just a few fundaments that are part of this trend.
Nowadays, there is a lot of attention for material use, colouring, lighting and art. That used to be different. Previously, functionality and management of the facility were the guiding motives in the design. Now the well-being of the patient and employee is at least as important. One way of doing this is using the natural environment outside the facilities as an inspiration for the indoor design. Local colours and materials tend to create a homely and comfortable feeling for those who are inside the building.
DESIGNING FOR DEMENTIA ENVIRONMENTS
Forbo are currently collaborating with a number of partners across the globe looking at the topic of Dementia design. Specifically we are trying to assist the design process so people can use our products to create better environments for patients and carers.
Age-related changes and impairments can make it more difficult to understand and navigate the built environment. Impairments may include sensory, mobility or cognitive (or sometimes a combination of them all) which can affect people's functioning, behavior, independence and ultimately, their quality of life.
Forbo has partnered with Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) from the University of Stirling in Scotland, an international center which draws on 25 years of global research and practice, to identify which products in our portfolio can contribute to improving the quality of life for people with dementia. Sphera Element has been approved for use in dementia environments.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY FLOORING SELECTION
Tonal contrast is critical for materials to be seen against each other. Both DSDC and BS8300:2009 recommend a difference of 30 degrees of LRV between critical surfaces such as floors to walls and doors to walls. Adjoining flooring should be tonally similar to reduce the risk of falls. Flooring LRVs should be within 10 degrees of each other (less is better). Transition strips should match the tones of both surfaces with an ideal difference of no more than 3 degrees of LRV step difference. It is recommended that skirtings contrast with both the wall and the door where possible.
For areas that have specific requirements such as safety flooring or acoustic flooring, our team can offer help and advice on dementia friendly products to meet your needs, all designed to work with your visualization.
DSDC AUDIT CERTIFICATE
This service independently assesses care setting design for people with dementia. DSDC auditors will visit the building and carry out a detailed audit of all areas used by people with dementia and rate the design of a building against evidence-based research on dementia-friendly design.
The audit award categories are Gold, Silver, Bronze and Highly Commended.
The auditors’ report will provide feedback on areas of design and how they rate. If the building receives a rating of Gold, Silver, Bronze or Highly Commended you will receive a certificate from the University of Stirling, DSDC that can be displayed for 3 years to recognise accreditation.