Four Stages Of Dementia

Chapter One
1.1 What is Dementia?
Dementia is a broad term used to describe a various amount of diseases that are associated with the decline in the mental state. One of the most common forms of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. It is the main culprit for almost half the cases of dementia seen in patients (O’ Shea, 2007). Other common forms of dementia include vascular dementia, mixed dementia and Lewy body dementia. The more uncommon forms of dementia include picks disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Parkinson's and Huntington disease. There is no specific cause for dementia; however, there is a medication that can slow down the progression of these symptoms. There have been more cases each year of younger patients below the age of 65 years
In the first stage of dementia patients tend to start losing their memory and suffer from mild anxiety. It is important for people living with dementia to continue their daily activities and become more involved in the community. The first stage is the most difficult phase because families have to adapt to their new routine. O’ Shea (2012) suggests that community services that are welcoming and promote awareness, as well as fun activities are important during this stage. In the second stage, patients may start to feel depressed, isolated and angry. Brawley (2007) suggests that support services and well-designed interior spaces may alleviate these symptoms. Interior spaces that are well lit, calm and comfortable will make the patient feel safe within their environment. This can be achieved by creating “a small homelike environment”, pathways for wayfinding and healing gardens (Brawley, 2007). During the final stage of dementia, patients may experience loss of speech, confinement and become frail. It is important that the interior spaces should be well equipped to deal with such frailties. Designers should follow the universal design guidelines and accessibility building regulations in order to design a safe space for all
It is an event hosted once a month to educate and raise awareness. The cafè provides a relaxed atmosphere, educational services and support for families. Although the event is a temporary solution, it raises awareness to the disease and acts as a form of relief to patients and their carers. It would be beneficial to the public as well as patients to have a more permanent solution, such as café’s or community centres focused on dementia or various other mental disabilities. Brawley (2007) states that the ability to provide welcoming and “appropriate” environments will improve the quality of life of dementia