De Meander

Creating well-being for people with dementia

In the Netherlands, the care hub concept has been developed further and geared specifically to the needs of people with dementia. The small-scale care facilities run by Martha Flora have a ‘Meander’ that consists of various colourful living areas and connects residents’ apartments with one another. The spacious, pleasant living environment makes a substantial contribution to the well-being of residents and care staff alike.

The Meander forms the basis of this innovative care concept for people with dementia. This communal living area includes a kitchen, a living room, a library, a workshop and a garden where residents can eat together, meet one another, take part in activities or welcome family. A care facility usually has two Meanders and each Meander connects 12 to 14 apartments.

Our staff are stimulated by the Meander, too. They feel proud and motivated and get satisfaction out of working in such a lovely environment.
Cornélie Scholten – Martha Flora

‘Each area has its own atmosphere and stimuli’, says Cornélie Scholten, business manager at Martha Flora. ‘So residents can always find a spot where they feel comfortable. In the Meander, our residents can meet one another when they feel the need and have opportunities to take part in various activities.’

The Meander concept was designed specifically for people with dementia on the basis of scientific research and practical experience of dementia care. ‘The use of colour, the light, the materials and the architecture in the Meander are geared to giving people with dementia a feeling of safety and security’, Scholten goes on. ‘Covering an average of 250 m², a Meander provides a lot of additional living space, which considerably lowers the stress level of our residents and noticeably improves their quality of life.’