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Designing for Alzheimer's Disease: Strategies for Creating Better Care Environments |
| Elizabeth C. Brawley |
| A practical, thorough approach to the development of therapeutic special care settings Research has shown that physical surroundings strongly influence the behavior and quality of life of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Designing for Alzheimer's Disease equips designers and care providers with the information they need to plan environments that can greatly enhance the lives of those with Alzheimer's. Explaining in concise, nontechnical terms how the disease affects cognitive and functional skills, the book offers detailed guidance on a broad range of design issues that are central to the creation of therapeutic care settings. The book features: *Specific design suggestions that are linked to therapeutic goals, such as increasing mobility, reducing confusion, promoting safety, and maximizing functional abilities *In-depth treatment of design criteria for lighting, color, pattern, texture, acoustics, and more *Extensive information on furnishings, fabrics, floor coverings, wall and ceiling finishes, windows and window treatments, plus product information and specifications *Flexible coverage of special care settings in nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, and residential environments — key information on room size, shape, and arrangement; outdoor space; wayfinding; safety; and security *Over 100 photographs and line drawings that clearly illustrate the design principles — including a 16-page color insert
The nation's entire aged population is increasing rapidly, and the most dramatic rise is occurring in the over-85 age group. With the baby boom generation set to join the ranks of the elderly shortly after the turn of the century, clearly we will need more healthcare settings and other facilities for an older population with a growing demand for long-term care services. | | |
