THERAPEUTIC GARDEN DESIGN FOR PATIENTS WITH NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of therapeutic gardens surrounding healthcare institu- tions treating neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Dementias. It fo- cuses on how the design of such spaces can address the specific needs of residents, and describes the recent studies concerning the most relevant guidelines for therapeutic gar- den design near hospitals, medical centers, and retirement homes. The literature study is compared with results of our recent study on the brain response to different landscape- design features. According to which an outdoor space with a high level of design com- patibility, inward space composition, a clear communication and signage system, while introducing archetypal elements and factoring several visual nuances, can be especially beneficial for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.