Simple things: the Alzheimer's space

Modem medicine, science, and technology have created a world where people are living longer and fuller lives. But the price tag for this 'time in a bottle' might be greater than we had imagined. As more of the population enters their 'Golden years' they are confronting with serious diseases such as stroke, late onset diabetes, arthritis, and the most sinister of all, Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease causes an erosion of cognitive ability, which ultimately results in death. Due to the fact that there is currently no cure for the disease, treatment focuses on symptoms and maintaining the general health of the sufferer. As the mind looses footing in its battle with the disease, it becomes increasingly important that other outside sources pick up the lost slack.<br><br>The struggle of those stricken with Alzheimer's disease warrants an exploration in to how space and spatial qualities can be manipulated to create an environment that will, in tandem with treatment, boost the well being of the resident.<br><br>The seriousness of Alzheimer's disease places a great demand and responsibility on the shoulders of architects and designers to become more enlightened and informed. By understanding the nature of Alzheimer's disease and its symptoms, a design response can be developed that will greatly benefit those living with dementia.<br><br>The aim of this Masters candidature is to explore and create design projects, in the context of the interior environment, which will provide the Alzheimer's sufferer with the support and stimulation needed to live a dignified life in the face of their ever-changing, ever- unfolding disease.