1.2 Introduction : Research problem and motivation

1.2 INTRODUCTION

RESEARCH PROBLEM AND MOTIVATION

This thesis will study sensory architectural spaces and their potential to improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's disease.

Sensorial environments give a form of therapeutic benefit in the aged, particularly those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's disease, resulting in improved well-being.

The current 2018 World Alzheimer’s Report states, “Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is one of the biggest global public health challenges facing our generation. Today, over 55 million people worldwide currently live with the condition and this number is expected to double by 2030 and more than triple by 2050 to 139 million. ”

• Dementia-friendly design may account for inadequacies faced by persons suffering from the condition, which is particularly important given that they spend the majority of their time indoors (Passini et al, 2000; Joesph, 2006).

• A well-designed physical environment can create a legible, user-friendly and enjoyable environment which can support wayfinding, independence, wellbeing and quality of life (Cohen and Weisman, 1991;

Day et al, 2000; Bonner, 2005; Bonneyfoy, 2007).

According to the research, the physical environment may be a therapeutic domain for people living with dementia by providing enough lighting, decreasing noise levels, creating homey surroundings, enhancing the layout, and giving landmarks to facilitate navigating.

Although guidelines and regulations were discussed previously as a manner of imposing design principles, there is some concern about environmental determinism and the influence of the social environment, so there must be some cooperation. (Broady, 1966).

Furthermore, guidelines may enhance architects' knowledge of dementia design, but the design process should actively consider these concepts rather than simply treating it as a tick-box exercise.

Although many dementia design principles are cost neutral, they are rarely used due to a lack of understanding.

Recognize that a lack of empirical research and convincing evidence may lead to the neglect of dementia design. While interior design may be easily corrected during a renovation, architectural design, layout, and structure are more difficult and costly to change.

When designing for dementia, it is critical that principles are ingrained from the beginning of the project, especially during conceptual design and planning.

“This thesis provides a more holistic approach to caring for persons with dementia by understanding the importance of architecture and the design of the physical environment of long-term care homes. ”