Navigating the Maze: Caregivers Perception on Design Elements to Improve Wayfinding for Older Adults With Dementia in Long-Term Care Facilities.

Abstract

The main purpose of this research is to understand the wayfinding experience of older adults with dementia in long-term care facilities and identifying environmental design elements that support older adults' spatial abilities. Wayfinding problems are the earliest symptoms of dementia, and older adults with cognitive impairment are more likely to get lost in the community and consequences cause psychological responses such as insecurity, agitation, and falling in their environment. The research used data collected from 30 caregivers of two long-term care facilities in the Midwest through a survey and interview on their perceptions of wayfinding design elements. The research findings highlighted on caregivers' perception on wayfinding experience of older adults with dementia. The findings show a significant difference between importance and satisfaction on floor pattern and visibility in the facilities. Study indicated that glass partitions in the middle of the hall and corridor can create visual obstruction for older adults and barrier for staff as well to keep visual track on them. The qualitative study revealed that different colored doors for individual patient room in a memory care enhance older adults' wayfinding abilities. In addition, in case of multisensory stimuli, noise and smell can improve their wayfinding abilities as well. The conclusion of the study highlights the importance of understanding the design elements that can be effective in creating a safer environment for older adults with dementia.