hilversum Launches ‘Forget-me-not-path’ to Aid Residents with Dementia
HILVERSUM, Netherlands – A new 500-meter walking path in Hilversum, designed to assist individuals living with dementia, officially opened in May. The ”Forget-me-not-path” connects the Martha Flora residential care center to the Dudokpark, offering a guided route intended to promote independence and reduce disorientation.
The path features blue tiles imprinted with the forget-me-not symbol, strategically placed along the sidewalk at regular intervals. The blue color was specifically chosen for its high visibility and ease of recognition for those with cognitive impairments, providing a clear visual guide. The route follows a familiar path frequently used by Martha Flora residents, leading to the peaceful and inviting dudokpark.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between Martha Flora, the municipality of Hilversum, informal care organizations, and local neighborhood teams.It draws inspiration from a similar successful path implemented in Bussum, where it demonstrably improved the well-being of residents by reducing feelings of being lost and increasing environmental engagement.Hilversum has been actively working towards becoming a dementia-friendly community, including providing dementia awareness training for municipal employees.Officials state the path is part of a broader effort to foster understanding and create a more inclusive environment.
The path aims to alleviate the challenges dementia patients often face during simple activities like walking – including fear, anxiety, and the risk of becoming lost – while also providing caregivers with increased peace of mind and a greater sense of freedom for their loved ones.