Copenhagen design studio NORD Architects conducted research when it was creating the Alzheimer's Village in Dax. It tries to understand an environment that would be best for those who have dementia and is notably one of the first projects of its kind in France. It references the urban layout of the old town which is purposefully done to create a sense of familiarity for the residence. At the middle of the village is a communal market square that is wrapped by concrete.
Morten Rask Gregersen, partner at NORD Architects tells Dezeen "When designing for people with dementia, where the loss of cognitive abilities is one of the main aspects of living with the condition, we design with the aim to help them in the best possible way. The design of the physical environment therefore relies on an idea of readability or recognition where simple design ideas and elements support the patient as their state and abilities change over time."
Dementia-Catering Village Designs
NORD Architects Designs the Alzheimer's Village in Dax
Trend Themes
1. Dementia-catering Village Designs - Design studios are creating villages catering specifically to people with dementia, using urban layouts and recognizable elements to create a sense of familiarity and support cognitive abilities.
2. Alzheimer's Village in Dax - The creation of the Alzheimer's Village in Dax, France, represents one of the first projects in the country designed specifically for individuals with dementia, providing an opportunity to develop innovative solutions for dementia care.
3. Designing for Cognitive Abilities - Designing environments for people with dementia involves incorporating simple design ideas and elements that support the changing cognitive abilities of the residents, presenting an opportunity for new design concepts and solutions.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Design - The architecture and design industry can play a crucial role in developing dementia-friendly environments that focus on familiarity, recognition, and supporting cognitive abilities.
2. Healthcare and Senior Care - The healthcare and senior care industry has an opportunity to explore innovative solutions and models of care for individuals with dementia, such as dementia-specific villages, that prioritize familiarity and cognitive support.
3. Urban Planning and Community Development - Urban planning and community development industries can contribute to the creation of dementia-friendly communities by incorporating design principles that promote familiarity, recognition, and accessibility for individuals with dementia.