PATIENTS at Salisbury District Hospital can now enjoy more calm and relaxing surroundings.

Major changes have been made to the layout and decoration on Pitton Ward, a 27-bed medical ward, following changes made to Redlynch Ward earlier in the year. It is part of a programme to make general wards at the hospital more comfortable and stimulating for patients, including people with dementia who are admitted to hospital for other medical reasons.

Fiona Hyett, deputy director of nursing, said: “While we have dedicated wards for our older patients, their prime reason for admission could be anything from a broken limb to another unrelated medical condition which will mean they need to be cared for in general or specialist areas.

“Over the years we’ve introduced a number of groundbreaking initiatives to provide additional support for patients with dementia throughout the hospital.”

The changes include refurbishing the bedrooms, day, dining and reception areas using a range of internal design features to create a calming, homely feel that helps with mood and orientation around the ward. They have also created more areas for social interaction and stimulation away from the bedside.

The aim is to improve other wars over the next few years as part of this programme of change.