Description
The purpose of this thesis is to examine the opportunities and benefits of connecting to nature within dementia care facilities. The increased need for dementia care and the rising level of acuity creates a unique opportunity for designers to create environments that support health and wellness for a vulnerable population. An increasingly recognized science known as biophilia can play a central role in facilitating wellness for both people and planet. Biophilia is defined as the innate human need to connect to nature and sets the basis for an understanding of the many benefits natural elements can provide. Experiencing nature through a variety of stimuli and engaging in nature related activities offers a number of physical, mental, and emotional health improvements that would be especially helpful for people with dementia. Maintaining a high quality of life for the residents and providing human-centered care are the primary goals for dementia care facilities, and the benefits provided by biophilic design support these goals. Relevant research in hospitals and work environments are examined, as a number of studies have shown how biophilia can improve healing in hospitals and increase productivity in the work place. As a result of this research, several design concepts were developed in a sample dementia care environment. They demonstrate how a connection to nature can be considered and implemented through design. The primary elements identified as providing positive effects on human health are views of nature, natural daylight and ventilation, access to water, plants, and access to wildlife. Other strategies include interior décor and furniture placement, nature related activities, and the creative use of conservatories and edge spaces. Many of these elements can be implemented in a design through thoughtful space planning, selection of materials and with special features such as indoor gardens and aquariums. With numerous benefits that can be gained from biophilic design, it is evident that this strategy is a compelling element with dementia care facilities. The need for a greater connection to nature is universal to all generations and cultures, so while there is more research to be done to continue maximizing the value of design within interior environments, these strategies should be implemented in all dementia care facilities to improve the health and wellness of the residents.