Dementia-friendly ambulances introduced in Yorkshire
The region’s ambulance service has introduced new vehicles for both 999 and non-emergency patient transport service with features to improve the experience of patients with dementia.
The improvements to the vehicles will create a calmer environment for someone who is living with dementia, and help to put them at ease. This includes printed blinds, which feature a landscape of the countryside for a sense of comfort and familiarity, and improved contrasting on the seats, floor and steps for better visibility.
There are 13 dementia-friendly vehicles for 999 now in service, with a further 21 in the commissioning process and an additional 91 vehicles to be delivered before the end of 31 March 2024. 60 patient transport service vehicles are also being built.
Yorkshire Ambulance Service had the opportunity to demonstrate its new vehicles as part of a research project to show how the needs of patients with dementia can be met and to understand the work that has been done in England to improve the experiences of people living with dementia.
The Alzheimer's Society have estimated that 10,530 people in North Yorkshire are living with dementia.
The printed blinds make the passenger area seem less clinical, and they give a point of focus and conversation for someone who is living with dementia and may be distressed in this environment.
The new contrasting on the seats, floor and steps of the vehicles also makes the edges more easily identifiable for patients. These simple additions to our vehicles will have a positive impact on patient experience.
A welcome addition
Considering the record numbers of people are being diagnosed with dementia - 487,432 people in England, Healthwatch North Yorkshire is pleased that the ambulances have been introduced and will help people with dementia to feel more comfortable.
