Improving physical environments for dementia care: Making minimal changes for maximum effect

The physical environment can play a significant role in treatment for and associated outcomes of LTC facility residents with dementia. The purpose of this article is to discuss the needs of this population and highlight research that demonstrates how relatively simple design modifications to the physical environment of existing facilities can have significant benefits for this population. Future research should explore how the physical environment impacts individuals at different stages of dementia, since many studies focus only on individuals with early-stage dementia or ignore the severity of dementia altogether. In addition, any adaptations to the physical environment should take into account factors such as ethic diversity, the needs of visiting families, and the potential to integrate community activities.