Author:

Keywords:

architecture, case study, dementia, experience, orientation, Science & Technology, Life Sciences & Biomedicine, Gerontology, Geriatrics & Gerontology, DESIGN, PEOPLE, QUESTION, CARE, HOME, Activities of Daily Living, Anthropology, Cultural, Architecture, Dementia, Environment Design, Female, Humans, Orientation, Residence Characteristics, Social Environment, 1103 Clinical Sciences, 1110 Nursing, 1702 Cognitive Sciences, Geriatrics, 4203 Health services and systems, 4205 Nursing

Abstract:

Due to memory loss, people with dementia are increasingly disorientated in space, time and identity, which causes profound experiences of insecurity, anxiety and homesickness. In the case study presented in this article, we explored how architecture can support people in coping with this challenge. We took a novel approach to offer architects insights into experiences of living with dementia. Starting from a critical realist and constructionist approach, we combined ethnographic techniques with an architectural analysis. This case study offers insights into the experiences and activities of a woman living with dementia within the architectural context of her home. We describe how the physical and social environment provided her guidance through sequences of day-to-day activities. This study highlights how architecture can support people with dementia in orientating by accommodating places for (1) everyday activities, and (2) privacy and togetherness.