Finding a way: Long term care homes to support dementia

Verity Faith, Karim Hadjri, Cliona Rooney, Cathy Craig, Keith McAllister

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

An ageing demographic has increased the number of people with dementia. Although dementia is commonly associated with memory loss, other early symptoms include difficulty with wayfinding. Dementia alters visuo-spatial perception and the processes used to interpret the physical environment. The role of the design of the physical environment for people with dementia has gained increased recognition. Despite this, design for dementia is often overlooked, focusing on issues relating to physical impairment. This paper presents the results of a PhD study and aims to examine the role of the design of the physical environment in supporting wayfinding for people with dementia living in long-term care settings in Northern Ireland. Mixed methods combined the observation of wayfinding walks and conversational style interviews to elicit perspectives and experiences of residents with dementia. The findings aim to promote well-being for those with dementia living in long-term care settings.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)204-217
Number of pages14
JournalInstitution of Civil Engineers: Proceedings. Urban Design and Planning
Volume168
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished online - 2 Sept 2015

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