To mark World Alzheimers Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the importance of dementia-friendly care and the innovative ways colleagues at Hampshire Hospitals are helping patients feel more comfortable, connected and at home during their stay in hospital.
A new therapeutic space designed to support patients living with dementia is making a positive difference for patients and their families at Hampshire Hospitals.
Memory Lane is a specially-created bus stop and social area at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, developed by staff who recognised the importance of familiar memories and routines in helping people with dementia feel safe, settled and connected.
Created by Elderly Care colleagues in partnership with the Trust’s Dementia Team, the space features nostalgic items including vintage-style telephones, historical photographs and a traditional red post-box, all designed to spark memories, conversation and connection. 
We really listened to what our patients were telling us,"explained Lesi Ndasi, Elderly Care Ward Sister. "Many people living with dementia have strong memories of past routines. Catching the bus, travelling to work or going shopping are everyday activities that remain vivid for them.
"They often tell us they want to go somewhere or ask about catching a bus. That got us thinking about how we could create a space that felt familiar and comforting, and that's where the idea came from."
Using this insight, the team transformed an underused area of the ward into a calm, welcoming environment away from the busy clinical setting.
"We had a small section of the ward that was mainly being used for equipment storage. It was quiet and separate from the main ward, so we worked with the dementia team to turn it into something meaningful.
"The old telephones, historic photographs and post-box are all things many of our patients recognise and remember. Together, we created Memory Lane as a place where patients could feel comfortable, engaged and at ease.”
The response from patients and families has been overwhelmingly positive, with one family member describing seeing a side of their loved one that they had not seen for some time.
"The patients love it and naturally gravitate towards it, meeting one another and striking up conversations. It's become a real community space. Families can also use the space to sit together somewhere quiet, have a chat and spend quality time together.
“I remember one lady telling us it was the happiest she had seen her husband in a long time. He was sitting with other patients, talking and smiling – it was wonderful to see."
As well as encouraging social interaction, Memory Lane has become a valuable space for patients experiencing anxiety, distress or confusion.
"When patients become anxious, it can be upsetting for them and challenging for staff and families," said Lesi. "Memory Lane gives people somewhere to sit, relax and feel reassured. Even if they don't recognise it as a bus stop, they recognise it as a safe and welcoming place.
"Being in hospital can be overwhelming, especially when someone is in an unfamiliar environment. Memory Lane helps promote dignity, wellbeing and connection.”
The team is now exploring opportunities to formally evaluate the impact of the initiative and build on its success.
Future plans include transforming another ward area into a dementia-friendly lounge filled with familiar memorabilia and nostalgic references that reflect patients' life experiences.
"We're interested in understanding the effect of the therapeutic bus stop on anxiety, distress and incidents of violence and aggression," said Lesi. "Working with the Dementia Team, we'd like to compare data from before and after the introduction of the space so we can better understand its impact."
"We'd also like to do even more, by creating a proper sitting room where people can relax with family, watch television programmes and enjoy a space that feels familiar. From classic football heroes to music legends such as ABBA, we want to create an environment that sparks positive memories and meaningful conversations." 
What began as a simple idea has quickly become a valued part of the ward environment, creating opportunities for connection, comfort and reassurance for patients living with dementia and the people who care for them.
The success of Memory Lane reflects the dedication and creativity of colleagues across the Trust, who have worked together to bring the space to life.
"The whole team has been brilliant in bringing everything together," added Lesi. "A special mention goes to Joe, who created the bus timetables, bus passes and many of the small details that have helped bring Memory Lane to life."
Funding for the introduction of Memory Lane has been provided by Hampshire Hospitals Charity, the Trust’s official charity. To learn more about their work and how you can support, please visit hampshirehospitalscharity.org.
