Exploring the integration of a human-centred approach in dementia care

Dementia is irreversible and progressive and manifests differently in each individual, often leading to a gradual decline in cognitive, emotional, and physical function. 

As dementia progresses, individuals typically require specialised care that goes beyond the capacity of their homes, which may lack the necessary medical equipment, safety features, and round-the-clock support.

The transition from home to assisted living or residential care facilities can be very challenging for dementia patients. Multiple researches have shown that sudden changes in the environment, including unfamiliar surroundings and new caregivers, can exacerbate physical and psychological symptoms. This transition often leads to heightened feelings of loss of independence, depression, social isolation, and disorientation. While New Zealand provides various retirement home options, many of these facilities are restricted by budget limitations and site-specific challenges, resulting in designs that may not adequately address the emotional and cognitive needs of dementia patients. Even those homes that are dementia-friendly accredited often fall short in supporting the patient's sense of identity and emotional well-being. Most facilities are designed with recreational enjoyment in mind rather than long-term "aging in place", and they often fail to provide environments that meet the needs of residents in the later stages of dementia. As the disease progresses, many patients require hospital-level care. Yet, these institutional settings typically lack the sense of familiarity with homely environments that are crucial for patient comfort and well-being.

The site at the intersection of Carlton Gore Road and Park Road offers a unique blend of urban convenience and access to green spaces. Behind the site, Grafton Train Station and a major bus stop serve as key transport hubs, offering easy access to Auckland's more comprehensive network. Just across the street, the Auckland Domain and Outhwaite Park provide ample green space, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. For healthcare needs, Auckland Hospital is just a 5 to 10-minute walk away, making it easily accessible for most residents, including those who are elderly, with only a slightly longer walk. In addition, Newmarket and Broadway are within easy reach—just one train stop or a short bus ride away.

From an urban design perspective, the site fits well within the guidelines of the Inclusive Urban Design Guide, which suggests that critical amenities should be within an 800-meter walking radius. The site is highly well-connected with its proximity to essential services, transport links, and parks. Another notable advantage is the nearby University of Auckland's Newmarket campus, which houses the Co-Create research group. This proximity opens up opportunities for site visits, research collaborations, and community-driven activities, benefiting residents and researchers alike.

Historically, the site has had a mixed-use character, with an industrial past that included mechanics and a gas station. There were also pockets of residential houses until the early 2000s when the area became dominated by car parks. Today, the site features a mix of uses, including a daycare, a swimming gear shop, and an office block at the southern corner.
The surrounding area is rich in architectural history, with residential apartments from the 1920s and 1930s along Carlton Gore Road. One building beside the site showcases Tudor-style architecture, complete with stucco cladding and arched windows. Category 2 heritage buildings, like the Scientology Church nearby, add further character to the area. These architectural elements have strongly influenced the design approach, helping create a sense of continuity and coherence with the surrounding neighbourhood.