The importance of colour

Various studies have shown that we have a great inclination to respond to colour. This means that choosing the right colour schemes, especially in the healthcare sector can be very important. The colour of everyday items such as plates, cups, or jug lids may have a huge effect on the patient, their hydration, nutrition and therefore their wellbeing. Certain colours have been shown to achieve positive results among patients with specific conditions such as dementia, but the impact is always down to each individual.

Blue is one of the most popular colours used in the healthcare sector for many years due to its’ calming effects on patients. It is especially effective in resting and sleeping areas, but also waiting rooms, where patients tend to feel more nervous and anxious. According to ‘The Application of Colour in Healthcare Settings’ released by The Centre for Health Design in 2012, ‘cool colors may be appropriate in environments for agitated, hypertensive, or anxious individuals;’. It is also widely associated with trust and stability. Same as blue, green – the colour symbolizing life, nature and harmony – can be advantageous for patients, who suffer from anxiety or have nervous tendencies as studies show that green colour reduces central nervous system activity.

Other colours showing to be very beneficial in the healthcare sector are red and yellow, which seems to be particularly successful among patients with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Based on ‘The Application of Colour in Healthcare Settings’, ‘bright, strong colors stimulate and encourage activity’ and further studies show that the colour red can significantly increase brain wave activity. It is also used to stimulate the production of adrenaline in patients, improve the patients’ appetite as well as provide a good visual contrast for the patient. ‘Red and yellows, for example, may be used in settings where creative activity is desired and socialization encouraged; greens and blues in areas that require quiet and extended concentration and high visual acuity (Sharpe, 1974). ‘

Recent trials at different healthcare institutions across the UK have shown positive effects of yellow on patients suffering from Dementia. The first initiative took place back in 2016 on the dementia ward at Furness General Hospital, in Barrow, where patients were served an additional 10 grams of food to their usual portions and the meals were plated on brightly coloured plates rather than plain alternatives. Dianne Smith, the matron for dementia at the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, mentioned speaking to the Daily Mail: ‘People with dementia often experience visual problems, including not being able to distinguish between different colours’, but highly contrasting colours such as yellow on a white table provided great help to navigate between different objects.

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https://www.harfieldtableware.co.uk/blog/the-importance-of-colour/