Consideration should be given to the occupants of the facility that one is designing for. This is perhaps even more important when designing for the elderly and furthermore for dementia patients.
Declining vision may cause the contrast between colours to be less noticeable, which can also impact depth perception. This is why high contrast colours can assist in helping residents to define objects and levels. Colour and depth perception become greater issues when designing spaces particularly for dementia patients.
Colour and pattern should also be carefully considered when exploring joinery choices. Particular attention should be given to pattern as residents with dementia often perceive patterns and motifs as actual objects.
Joinery finishes are often the largest visual element in an area and evidently significantly impact the aesthetic appeal of the space. Selection of appropriate joinery finishes may help to create a non-institutional atmosphere and assist in the healing process.