Remembering home: creating a village for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers

Abstract

The number of individuals diagnosed with dementia is on the rise globally. There is a dire need for suitable housing that responds to the symptoms of dementia while also providing spaces where individuals can thrive without being isolated from the greater community. In Canada, most places designed specifically for individuals living with dementia are institutional settings that separate individuals from their community. Residential settings may offer comfort but are not adequately designed to meet the challenges of dementia. This thesis studies dementia care design to create a more suitable living environment for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. A house community model style of residence is designed to accommodate individuals who live with dementia and caregivers in Sudbury, Ontario. The larger community and residents can interact through arts-based programming to benefit both. These efforts are made to provide more dignity and comfort to all involved in the dementia process.