Designing for People Living with Dementia: Multisensory Immersion

Abstract

This is a case study on creating immersive, multi-sensory experiences for people living with dementia. Our aging population is on the rise and cases of dementia are increasing along with it. The needs of patients with dementia for enrichment are profound. What might design principles look like when creating experiences for this population? What practices can we bring to understand and evaluate the complex needs of people with dementia? This article shares work from a years-long research and development project creating multi-sensory, real-world interactives for people living with dementia in a memory care facility. This project focused on improving the quality of life through fostering immersion and delight. We share the evolution of standards and design principles for this realm.