Product Accreditation
As our population ages, products will play a greater role in maintaining independence and health; well-designed products can increase independence and quality of life for older people and people with dementia.
DSDC work with manufacturers and designers to review and assess product suitability for use in a dementia-friendly environment. A Product Accreditation from the DSDC supports specifiers and designers to create environments suitable for a dementia and ageing population by streamlining the product selection process.
We provide an individualised approach to ensure each product is assessed appropriately against the latest research using the product design principles. Each product assessment is completed by a range of DSDC’s multidisciplinary team, to ensure a rigorous assessment process. Products which go through a DSDC assessment are classified by suitability of use. Any product which is suitable for use in a dementia friendly environment is awarded the DSDC Accredited Product logo.
How does it work?
Accredited products are accompanied by technical literature which explains the design principles of a dementia-inclusive environment, supporting the application of products in practice, and a ratings key. Please keep in mind that products are accredited on their individual merit and it is up to individuals / organisations to ensure that a products’ application is in line with dementia design guidelines.
Applying products in practice
For more information about the product accreditation service, you can view our Information and Guidance Booklet and the Products for Dementia Brochure. If you would like to talk to DSDC about the product accreditation service, please contact us at dementia@stir.ac.uk
More information and next steps
For a full list of DSDC accredited products, you can download DSDC’s Accredited Products Directory. If you have any queries about the accredited products within the directory, contact the DSDC team at dementia@stir.ac.uk.