Dementia Friendly

Dementia Friendly Symbol

Stoughton Hospital works to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals affected by dementia and their caregivers. Individuals with dementia can become overwhelmed or agitated by the hospital environment of bright lights, unfamiliar areas, and strangers approaching them.

Through both environmental changes and staff training, Stoughton Hospital became the first Dementia Friendly hospital in Dane County.

The environmental changes included signs with simple language, effective lighting, simple decorations, low contrast and low shine flooring and quiet places to rest. Additionally, there’s been an emphasis on displaying artwork that invokes reminiscing.

All hospital employees participated in dementia training to learn how to best work with affected individuals and their caregivers. Staff were taught a new mindset, “I am confused, I don’t know what that person is trying to tell me,” rather than, “that person is confused.”  Hospital staff are encouraged to find ways to best accommodate patients and visitors with dementia.

Stoughton Dementia Friendly Coalition

For a printable copy of these resources, please click here.

 Stoughton Memory Café

A Memory Café is a place where individuals with memory loss and their care partners can get together in a safe, supportive and engaging environment. It is a time and place where people can interact, laugh, find support, share concerns and celebrate without feeling embarrassed and misunderstood. The Memory Café encourages friendship and acceptance. Participants share conversation in a relaxed atmosphere that can include music, art or other forms of activity. 

Beginning January 2019 Stoughton Hospital will be hosting the Memory Café in the Bryant Health Education Center. 

Meets 1st Tuesday of the month 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Stoughton Hospital
Bryant Health Education Center 
900 Ridge Street Stoughton, WI 53589

There are several other Memory Cafés in Dane County, please click here for a listing.

Questions? For more information contact the Stoughton Area Senior Center (608) 873-8585.

Safety Tips – Caring for Your Loved One with Dementia

This community presentation was recorded on September 20th, 2018.