Brock House Society in Vancouver, B.C. provides services and programming for seniors and older adults, helping them stay social and connected, engage in hobbies, and learn new skills. However, Brock House is several blocks away from the closest bus stop on 4th Avenue, a walk that can take 10 to 20 minutes for someone with physical and/or cognitive challenges. On a recent trip in the neighbourhood, one member who has dementia got disoriented at the bus stop, and was unable to find their way to Brock House. Luckily, a shopkeeper noticed the person and was able to offer help.
Activity: Take a look around this Google street view location near Brock House. What are some challenges that people living with dementia might experience navigating around this area? Describe one or more neighbourhood scale actions that could improve inclusion, access, and wellbeing for people living with dementia in this neighbourhood. Consider:
Which specific design strategies or actions would you recommend to improve inclusion for people living with dementia in this neighbourhood?
Which of the six principles for dementia-inclusive design your proposal would support?
What neighbourhood plans or policies could help implement this action?
