Optimal spaces for those living with dementia : principles and evidence

Barrett, PS; Sharma, M; Zeisel, J

Abstract

This paper represents a synthesis of diverse and disparate evidence in the research literature that provide insights into the impacts of aspects of the built environment on the wellbeing of those living with dementia. The individually focused findings are structured into a set of practical design parameters, driven by three overarching needs-driven design principles, namely: manageable cognitive load, clear sequencing, and appropriate level of stimulation. These needs are contextualized within a general model that suggests that action in any one area (such as the built environment) also has to take into account other key dimensions, namely any support from the caring / social environment and any pharmacological treatment. Addressing these elements holistically should maximize the opportunity to improve the quality of life of the individual. This paper, however, explicitly focuses on the built environment.

Citation

Barrett, P., Sharma, M., & Zeisel, J. (2018). Optimal spaces for those living with dementia : principles and evidence. Building Research and Information, 47(6), 734-746. https://doi.org/10.1080/09613218.2018.1489473

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 26, 2018
• Online Publication Date: Jul 11, 2018
• Publication Date: Jul 11, 2018
• Deposit Date: Jul 3, 2018
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 18, 2018
• Journal: Building Research and Information
• Print ISSN: 0961-3218
• Publisher: Routledge
• Volume: 47
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 734-746
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09613218.2018.1489473
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/09613218.2018.1489473
• Related Public URLs: https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/rbri20/current
• Additional Information: Funders : Centre for Dementia