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Can transformative spaces improve quality of life for individuals with dementia?
Mick O'Kelly, Ph.D.
Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
Background
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impacts memory, thinking, and behavior. Studies have shown that the physical design of one’s home environment can directly impact the emotional well-being and cognition in individuals with Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment, as well as their caregivers. However, the impact of transforming physical space with artwork on one’s emotional well-being and cognitive function remains unknown.
Research Plan
Dr. O’Kelly plans to bring together clinicians, scientists, artists, caregivers, and individuals living with dementia for this project. The team will recruit five individuals with dementia to participate in the study and will transform images of brain scans into stained glass artwork. Each stained glass art piece will be used to replace a standard window in the individual’s home with the goal of creating a transformative space to limit the impact of dementia and burden of caregivers in the home environment.
Impact
If successful, this study may shed new light on the bridge between science and art by creating spaces that improve the well-being of individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
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