THANKS to medical advances, we are living longer than our parents’ generation.

That’s good, but it does bring its own problems. One is how society is going to accommodate the growing number of people likely to develop dementia.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation is leading a drive to make York a “dementia friendly city”. That will involve everything from York people and businesses being more patient and understanding of those with dementia, to clearer signage so that people who are forgetful or confused can get about.

A number of organisations have already signed up to the Dementia Without Walls pledge.

It is a good approach, but it only goes so far.

Dementia is a progressive condition. Many people in the early stages dread one day no longer being able to look after themselves, and having to move into care.

For those with more advanced dementia, a good care home may be the best place for them. So the secret is surely to make such homes places where people with dementia can feel properly at home, and where they can retain as much independence and quality of life as possible.

A city council pilot project at Windsor House in Acomb aims to try to create a home just like that. The plan is for “self-contained households” with open-plan kitchens, memory boxes outside rooms, and bedroom doors that resemble front doors so residents feel they have their own personal space.

It is hoped the pilot could help shape the design of the council’s new “super care homes” due to open in 2016. How good to see the authority thinking about this.

Because until a cure is found, we owe it to those with dementia – and to their loved ones – to enable them to live with as much dignity, autonomy and security as possible.