About Us
The Design and Dementia Research Project (DDRP) team aims to increase awareness and adoption of the global need for inclusive design for people with dementia. The project addresses significant barriers, such as the lack of up-to-date online information that is easily accessible and understood. The team seeks to bridge this gap by translating the latest research into easily understandable content accessible to a diverse audience to increase awareness and adopt best-practice evidence-based design and dementia recommendations.
The design of buildings and spaces has a clear impact on people with dementia, their care partners, health or social care workers, and the community. The physical environment is important in helping people live independently and feel safe and calm. This influence affects everyone, whether they have dementia or not. For those with dementia, the design of their surroundings can directly impact their quality of life, engagement, and well-being, as various studies have shown. For over 40 years, research has examined how design impacts people with dementia. Many studies indicate that specific design features and layouts can help or hinder daily activities in homes, care facilities, and communities. The principles of dementia-inclusive design were first introduced in 1998, with detailed guidelines and assessment tools published a decade later in Australia. Despite these advancements, dementia-inclusive design is often overlooked in dementia care. Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) sees dementia-inclusive design as essential for the rights and social inclusion of people with dementia. However, stigma and lack of understanding can prevent effective design. Many people view it as costly, ageist, and unattractive. Limited knowledge and resources also create challenges in developing these important spaces. There are significant gaps between what we know about effective design and what is practised in dementia care, both locally and globally.
Despite many studies, we still need help to turn research into practice. Disabling spaces for people with dementia can lead to declines in their mental and physical abilities and responses and have negative impacts on care partners, health and dementia care staff and the community. We must ensure that the 57 million people with dementia and their communities receive education about creating inclusive environments. As our population ages, poor outcomes in care as a result of disabling environments will continue to impact families, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Dementia carries significant economic costs, which may exceed $1 trillion each year worldwide. Improving environments can enhance quality of life and reduce pressure on individuals, care partners, and healthcare systems. This improvement is crucial for long-term care strategies around the globe.
Our Aim
To make knowledge about design and dementia as easy to access as your favourite online blog. Think of us as your go-to resource, bringing everyone together to tackle the challenges of design and dementia with creativity and compassion. Have you ever thought about how the places we live, work and relax affect our wellbeing? The DDRP believes that good design can enable and be inclusive for people with dementia and the community around them. Whether it's cosy homes, community spaces, or welcoming medical facilities, smart design helps everyone, regardless of age or background! We’re not just focusing on individuals; we’re creating a global community where ideas can flow freely, and information is just a click away. By spreading awareness about how design can improve dementia care, we're helping create an enabling and inclusive future for everyone to age in place.
So, join us on this exciting journey; together, we can make a difference!
What we do
Our site offers a range of ways to access information and get involved in research in design and dementia.
News: This section will feature updates on community projects, personal contributions from advocates, the latest evidence-based recommendations and other noteworthy highlights.
Events: This area will promote upcoming free online webinars, offering accessible learning opportunities to the community. At this stage, we will focus exclusively on non-commercial webinars.
Get involved: This page is dedicated to supporting research recruitment efforts. It will offer opportunities for individuals to engage in ongoing studies and contribute to advancing knowledge in the field.
For Educators: This page will compile essential resources, including links to assessment tools, national guidelines, and more. It will also offer recommendations on how educators can effectively utilise the "News" section to integrate infographics, YouTube videos, and podcasts into their curriculum and how to contact the team regarding the use of the resources.
The Team
Click on the buttons below to find out more about the team members.
Dr Joanna Sun Dr Emma Lea Dr Jacqueline Leung
Get in touch
Do you have a published paper, project or idea? We want to hear from you!
Click here to send us an email