Sustainable design strategies to assist the elderly with dementia

Abstract

Sustainable construction practices that take into account the ecological, social, and financial performance of buildings are gaining acceptance in many areas of the construction industry. As the baby boomers begin to retire, the provision of healthy living environments for the elderly in the community is a growing concern, especially for those suffering from dementia. Because most individuals with dementia are cared for at home until their condition requires medical supervision, healthy living is often a challenge affecting the whole family. This study examines how best to implement sustainable strategies that support healthy and safe living environments for individuals with dementia and their families. After considering how the characteristics and symptoms of dementia can be ameliorated by careful environmental design, relevant familial and community characteristics that support healthy living for the target population are described and ways of incorporating sustainable strategies to provide a healthy living environment explored. Using an evidence-based approach, the interdisciplinary research team conducted an extensive review of both medical and construction journals to develop a set of practical guidelines designed to assist those grappling with these difficult issues. © 2012 ASCE.