Making Neighborhoods Better for People with Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Freeman Shannon, Gourley Keone, Rossnagel Emma, Groulx Mark
Primary Institution: University of Northern British Columbia
Hypothesis
How can municipalities improve walkability for persons living with dementia?
Conclusion
Neighborhoods currently lack the necessary infrastructure to support walkability for persons living with dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Active engagement in the natural environment is important for health and wellbeing for persons with dementia.
- High walkability in neighborhoods helps persons with dementia access the outdoors and maintain social relationships.
- The analysis found severe infrastructural barriers for walkability in the neighborhoods studied.
Takeaway
People with dementia need safe and easy-to-navigate neighborhoods to stay active and connected. Right now, many neighborhoods don't have what they need.
Methodology
A GIS analysis was conducted along with interviews of individuals living with dementia and their family caregivers.
Limitations
The study focused on a specific city, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Individuals living with dementia and their family caregivers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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