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A Checklist for Assessing Dementia-friendly Design: Architecture as Non-pharmacological Mean in Assistance of Patients with Dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 March 2020

M.V. Zamfir
Affiliation:
Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Physiology II, Neurosciences Division, Faculty of Medicine, Bucharest, Romania
M. Zamfir Grigorescu
Affiliation:
“Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urbanism, Faculty of Architecture, Bucharest, Romania

Abstract

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Introduction

Although there are recommendations regarding dementia-friendly architecture, studies on design features and their impact on quality of life of patients with dementia are quasi-nonexistent. The design of the environment is one of the non-pharmacological methods in the assistance of patients with dementia.

Objectives

Setting a checklist of design principles in order to assess centers for elderly with dementia; identifying the types of centers where will be applied the checklist; implementation of the checklist and determining results of assessment.

Aims

Our aim is to challenge the contemporary architecture of centers for elderly to be friendly with dementia patients.

Methods

After studying literature we built a check-list of 8 principles: providing a comfortable space and also a therapeutically environment; functionality and efficiency; flexibility and accessibility; optimal design of circulation routes in order to avoid disorientation and to reduce agitation; security and safe; aesthetics; sanitation; sustainability. We then performed a case-study on two types of settings, day care centers and respite centers, and we applied the check list on three examples: two urban Day Care Centers for patients with Alzheimer Dementia (2006, Pontevedra, Spain and 2011, Alicante, Spain) and a Respite Center (2009, Dublin, Ireland).

Results

In general, the centers are verifying the proposed checklist. Four architectural tools were identified: light, form, colour and texture. Form is more recognizable than colour and colour more recognizable than function.

Conclusions

Architecture contributes to increase quality of life in people with dementia. The proposed checklist is a promising tool for assessing dementia-friendly design.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Type
e-Poster viewing: Old age psychiatry
Copyright
Copyright © European Psychiatric Association 2017
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