Rangsdorf starts a unique project: Dementia shared apartment in the office building!

Rangsdorf starts a unique project: Dementia shared apartment in the office building!

Something exciting is happening in Rangsdorf: a new one Dementia living community is in the starting blocks. This initiative is being driven forward by committed volunteers, those affected and the local building contractor Christian von Weschpfennig. The project addresses the growing need for suitable accommodation for people with dementia, an issue that is becoming increasingly important in our society. The municipality of Rangsdorf supports the project with its own resources and actively promotes its implementation.

A particularly committed part of the initiative is Volker Kolasinski, who is directly affected by the disease. He cares for a woman in his family who suffers from dementia and is therefore confronted first-hand with the challenges of everyday life. Kolasinski describes the constant tension and uncertainty that comes with caregiving and emphasizes the need for solid support from those around her. Meanwhile, the community plans to offer training on dementia, which has already received a great response. Two workshops were fully booked in no time, and a third is already in preparation.

Quality of life in a community

But what characterizes a dementia community? As a rule, 6 to 12 people with different forms of dementia live here in a structured, yet family-like environment. Each resident has their own room, which can be individually designed. Common areas such as the kitchen, living room and garden promote social interaction and participation in shared activities, which significantly increases the quality of life of residents. Forum for seniors emphasizes that such a shared apartment represents an optimal alternative to traditional nursing homes and enables the residents to lead a largely self-determined life.

The next steps in Rangsdorf appear promising: Weschpfennig's construction company is planning to expand its office building in which the shared apartment will be located. The architects from GBP from Berlin are also involved in the planning. The group also receives support from the Department of Aging and Care in the District in the state of Brandenburg, which provides valuable inspiration for the establishment of this important institution.

Design and security

The design of the rooms will play a central role. Important aspects include, for example, a clear spatial structure and easily recognizable areas that give residents security and orientation. Your care describes that the furniture must also be adapted to the specific needs of dementia sufferers. Robust and clearly visible furniture as well as ergonomic seating should promote well-being. Safety measures such as non-slip floors and grab bars in bathrooms are essential to minimize the risk of injury and provide residents with a safe home.

Although some questions about residents' personal responsibility and care organization still need to be clarified on this promising path, the community is confident that it will soon be able to recruit more volunteers for the project. The commitment and support of the local community shows once again how important it is to stand together and find solutions to challenges that can affect us all.