Slieve Russell Hotel In Co. Cavan Becomes Ireland’s First Dementia-Inclusive Hotel: A New Milestone For Tourism And Care

Published on November 21, 2025

The Slieve Russell Hotel situated in County Cavan has taken the crown for being the first dementia-inclusive hotel in Ireland. Through a collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland (ASI), the hotel has carried out a number of considerate alterations striving to make the travel experience more friendly and less stressful for guests with dementia. This revolutionary measure is expected to revamp the whole experience of the tourist who is suffering from dementia, giving them the opportunity to enjoy an uninterrupted and caring holiday.

A Safe and Supportive Environment for Tourists with Dementia

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI), alongside the Slieve Russell Hotel, launched this initiative with the aim to create an environment where guests living with dementia can feel safe, valued, and respected. The official launch event was attended by Kieran O’Donnell T.D., the Minister of State for Older People, who praised the partnership for its dedication to improving the quality of life for people living with dementia. He highlighted the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that allow people to live well with dementia, noting that projects like these help ensure everyone can enjoy travel and leisure with dignity.

The new dementia-friendly services are designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive experience for visitors. With a focus on safety, comfort, and autonomy, the hotel has revamped both its physical space and services to meet the unique needs of dementia patients.

Dementia-Inclusive Room Designs and Accessible Amenities

One of the standout features of this initiative is the specially designed dementia-friendly rooms. These rooms were developed with input from Dementia Inclusive Design Specialists at the University of Stirling, ensuring they cater to the sensory and cognitive needs of those living with dementia. The rooms boast features such as clear signage, simplified layouts, and non-reflective surfaces to create a calming and easy-to-navigate environment.

The colour schemes of the rooms have been carefully selected with contrasting colours to enhance visibility and improve orientation. Additionally, the rooms have minimal clutter, and mirror blinds are used to reduce disorientation. These thoughtful changes help guests feel more comfortable and less anxious during their stay.

The hotel has also focused on improving accessibility in public areas. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the hotel, complete with grab rails and emergency pull cords, ensuring that all guests can move around safely and independently. Furthermore, the communal areas are designed to be easy to navigate, and signage across the property uses high-contrast visuals to reduce confusion.

Enhanced Care and Services for Dementia Tourists

Slieve Russell Hotel is not just providing physical adaptations but also implementing comprehensive service improvements. Staff across all departments have undergone specialist training to help them better understand the needs of guests with dementia. The training was provided by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, with several team members becoming dementia champions. These champions will take the lead in offering compassionate and informed service, helping guests feel at ease and supported throughout their visit.

In addition to the in-room enhancements and staff training, the hotel has introduced quiet zones throughout the property. These areas are designed to reduce sensory overload, offering guests a peaceful space where they can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the hotel. This thoughtful design element ensures that those with dementia can maintain their comfort and well-being while enjoying their time at the hotel.

Accessible Parking and Tranquil Gardens for Relaxation

For guests with mobility challenges or those who need additional assistance, the hotel offers designated accessible parking spaces. These spaces are conveniently located close to the entrance, making it easier for guests to access the hotel’s facilities.

A key part of the hotel’s commitment to providing a full-service experience for dementia guests is its tranquil garden. Just a short walk from the main building, the garden features an all-weather brick pathway and shaded seating areas, creating a serene environment for relaxation. This outdoor space is an ideal spot for guests and their families to unwind and connect with nature, promoting the well-being of those living with dementia.

A Positive Step Toward Inclusive Tourism

By becoming Ireland’s first dementia-inclusive hotel, Slieve Russell is leading the way in making travel more inclusive for people with dementia. The hotel’s efforts not only ensure that individuals living with dementia can enjoy a stress-free holiday but also demonstrate how the tourism industry can adapt to meet the needs of diverse visitors. The partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland sets a new standard for accessible and compassionate hospitality.

Orla Murphy, the People and Culture Manager at Slieve Russell Hotel, expressed pride in the hotel’s new status as Ireland’s first dementia-inclusive hotel. She emphasized the hotel’s commitment to providing a safe, welcoming environment where guests living with dementia and their families can feel at ease. Murphy noted that the hotel would continue to invest in training and service improvements, ensuring it remains a leader in inclusive hospitality.

A Bright Future for Dementia-Friendly Travel

The Slieve Russell Hotel’s transition into a dementia-inclusive hotel is a turning point in the hospitality industry, particularly in the area of accessible travel. The hotel is making it possible for people suffering from dementia to have a pleasant and relaxed holiday by providing a variety of customized services and designing rooms with consideration. The initiative not only has a positive impact on dementia patients but it also serves as an example for other hotels and tourism companies to follow, hence, making the tourism industry more inclusive and caring.