College - Author 1

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 1

City and Regional Planning Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in City and Regional Planning

Date

3-2026

Primary Advisor

Ryan Sandwick, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, City and Regional Planning Department

Abstract/Summary

With advancements of modern medicine, more people are living longer lives. However, cognitive decline has become a greater issue faced by a growing number of people. The amount of People Living With Dementia (PLWD) has increased substantially, almost 10 million a year, and as such need different living conditions than what used to serve them (Alzheimer’s Disease International, n.d.). The common solution in the western world is to care for elders in specific sites for them like nursing homes or to hire a live-in nurse to care for them. These services are costly, highly specialized, and tailored to care for seniors with cognitive decline. Yet, a large number of seniors facing cognitive decline in the form of dementia and other illnesses continue to live outside of these services which can be more dangerous for them. Many individuals prefer to remain in their home and neighborhood where they are comfortable even if the neighborhood is not designed for those facing cognitive decline. PLWD’s wayfinding ability is less effective and their physical mobility is limited due to their cognitive impairment. This toolkit is designed to provide suggestions for jurisdictions and private developers to adapt or make a development more dementia-friendly. Distinct features, landmarks, and walkable environments are all elements that can help increase the wayfinding ability and accessibility of a neighborhood. Taking into account the majority of neighborhoods were not built with specific wayfinding standards, the suggestions here focus on adapting existing neighborhoods.

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