Strategy 1.5
Open spaces
Flat walking paths within parks can enhance access to nature within cities. Photo: Arthur Castro / Flickr
1.5.1
Enhance access to natural areas
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Provide accessible pathways or overlooks where people can still interact with the natural area, such as a bench with a view of water.
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Offer access to an accessible public toilet in natural areas.
A small, informal seating area in a public plaza, surrounded by planter boxes and away from the street edge. Photo: Emma Avery / Happy Cities
1.5.2
Create informal gathering spaces
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Create quiet seating areas removed from high-traffic and busy areas.
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Create small-scale seating areas near schools, parks, or shopping areas so that people living with dementia can sit and observe.
Ph1: A former intersection converted into a small, green space in Montreal. Photo: Emma Avery / Happy Cities
Ph 2: An exercise park in Vancouver with accessible walking paths. Photo: Emma Avery
1.5.3
Design frequent parklets or small-scale green spaces
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Ensure access to green space within 150 to 300 metres from home.
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Re-purpose street lanes and parking spaces to create parklets.
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Create spaces for physical activity, such as outdoor workout circuits.
Diverse open spaces allow people to spend time in nature, which boosts mental and physical health. People living with dementia benefit from safe outdoor destinations where they can socialize and feel like they are a part of the community. However, natural areas can be challenging to access for people living with dementia if they are not accessible.
Actions under this strategy:
Distinct: Open space and nature provide wayfinding cues to help navigation.
Comfortable: Places to stop and rest away from noise and crowds support comfort and wellbeing.