LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTS
ARCHITECTS
Regis Woodlands (completed January), Koh I Noor Wembley (March), Regis Hollywood (June), and Opal Carine (July) are the latest in PLAN E Landscape Architect’s portfolio of health and aged care projects, founded on unique considerations of accessibility, aesthetics, comfort and functionality.
PLAN E Associate Landscape Architect Jo Olive describes the benefits of a well-designed dementia courtyard.
“Gardens designed specifically for people with dementia are known to have a range of therapeutic benefits and can often help reduce symptoms associated with dementia,” said Mrs Olive.
A view of a beautiful garden can be appreciated from inside; however, a successful dementia courtyard will inspire residents to leave the comfort of indoors to engage with the landscape and benefit from its therapeutic opportunities.
Creating comfortable spaces that feel safe, familiar, and that are easily navigated is key to motivating residents to take the first step outside. Once outside, water features, sculptures, plantings and other points of interest encourage residents to wander and explore. Providing shaded seating at regular intervals makes the space comfortable to use, and encourages residents to spend longer in the garden.
“Including opportunities for meaningful activity is an important component of the design,” Mrs Olive said.
Mrs Olive advises that courtyard spaces should include raised garden beds, tool sheds, clotheslines and other amenities to enable residents to participate in daily activities that they enjoy and are familiar with. Encouraging this participation boosts quality of life and creates opportunities for socialisation.
We acknowledge and respect Traditional Owners across Australia as the original custodians of our land and waters, their unique ability to care for country and deep spiritual connection to it. We honour Elders past, present and emerging whose knowledge and wisdom has and will ensure the continuation of cultures and traditional practices.
