Several programs have been instituted since the 1950s to provide better housing and facilities for the elderly. However, many housing facilities have been designed and constructed with little knowledge of the biological characteristics of aging persons. Additionally, most policies and standards relative to the design of buildings by architects, environmental planners, interior designers, and others have been formulated on the basis of assumption, rather than information obtained through systematic research that includes user needs. As a result, living environments frequently are not responsive to the needs of older people, particularly persons suffering from dementia of the Alzheimer type. Several environmental variables, including illumination, noise abatement, color, furnishings, spatial arrangement, pattern, and texture are consistently deficient. Anyone of these features, if problematic or inappropriately applied, can further complicate the life of an individual experiencing dementia. Certain environmental design features may not only threaten the person’s health, safety, and welfare, but produce anxiety that can amplify cognitive deficits and result in negative behavioral responses.

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Creating a therapeutic environment for the Alzheimer patient is a complicated task for both caregivers and designers. A user-friendly approach in arriving at design solutions must be used in order to design living environments that meet the specific needs of the individuals who are cognitively and/or physically impaired. The design suggestions are broadly stated to allow caregivers and designers creative latitude. Materials selection and color preferences should be determined by the designers and caregivers based on geographic location, the type of housing facility, codes and regulations, climate, topography, economic constraints, and future plans. These suggestions are not conclusive and much remains to be learned in this area. What may be the most important concept in designing is to attempt to perceive the world through the eyes and ears of an Alzheimer patient. Continue to think of ways to maintain familiarity, reduce confusion, and still provide a pleasant and appropriate living environment for these special individuals.

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