ARIAS is a research platform by the Amsterdam University of the Arts (AHK), Gerrit Rietveld Academie, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Vrije Universiteit (VU Amsterdam). ARIAS enables intersections, encounters and collaborations between art-research and research in the humanities, social sciences and the natural sciences.
Henri Snel is part of the research platform and established the Alzheimer-Architecture office to conduct research into the living conditions of Alzheimer’s patients from an architectural viewpoint. His projects often involve students from different educational institutions, like the Rietveld Academie and (scientific) specialists in cross-over collaborations. With Alzheimer-Architecture, Snel contributes to existing efforts to design ‘perception places’ that stimulate and activate residents. In his designs, his aim is to reduce unnecessary incentives and encourage meaningful incentives to stimulate physical activity. His PhD research is currently focused on designs for wayfinding in public space for people with dementia, together with the municipality of Amsterdam and the Odensehuis a dementia day care centre. Moreover, he works on a research project in relation to touch, colour and object in a semi-public space in different care homes in the Netherlands.
PhD supervisors:
Prof. Dr. A.M.L. Kappers, Department of Human Movement Sciences, VU Amsterdam
Prof. Dr. R.M. Dröes, Department of Psychiatry, VU Amsterdam Medical Center
The Effect of a Navigation Route on Wayfinding in Elderly Suffering from Mild to Moderate Dementia
MSc Thesis – Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Author: Josi Klomp | Supervisor: Prof. Dr. A.M.L. Kappers / PhD candidate: H.A. Snel MArch | Date: 19 October 2017
Introduction
With the aging population, dementia is becoming a major public health issue, affecting millions worldwide. Dementia impairs cognitive functions, including spatial orientation and wayfinding, limiting independent mobility and reducing the quality of life (HRQoL). This study investigates the effectiveness of an outdoor navigation route in supporting wayfinding for elderly individuals with mild to moderate dementia. The route, consisting of painted symbols on pavements, was designed to guide individuals from the Odensehuis Amsterdam Zuid (a dementia support center) to the nearest supermarket.
Methodology
A total of nine participants with mild to moderate dementia were observed during accompanied walks along the navigation route under two conditions:
- Presence condition – With the navigation route
- Absence condition – Without the navigation route
The study examined decision points, observation areas, and crossing points, assessing wayfinding behaviors such as hesitation, correct decision-making, missed nodes, and safe crossings. Data were collected through direct observations and participant interviews. Statistical tests, including the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney U test, were applied to analyze differences between conditions.
Results
- No significant differences were found for decision points and observation areas.
- At crossing points, participants made more correct decisions in the presence of the navigation route (p=0.021).
- Without the navigation route, more unsafe crossings occurred, especially at complex traffic situations.
- Participants were less anxious and more confident when using the navigation route.
- The supervisor and participants confirmed that the route improved safety and awareness, with potential long-term benefits.
Discussion & Conclusion
Although the study found limited statistically significant results due to the small sample size, observational data and participant feedback suggest that the navigation route is a beneficial support tool. It enhances safety, reduces anxiety, and promotes independent mobility, which may contribute to a better HRQoL. The study highlights the importance of dementia-friendly environments and suggests future research should examine long-term effects and applications in unfamiliar areas.
This research demonstrates that simple environmental adaptations, such as clear visual cues, can significantly impact the independence and well-being of people with dementia. Expanding such interventions in urban planning and care facilities could foster greater inclusivity and autonomy for those affected.
Keywords: Dementia, wayfinding, navigation, spatial orientation, elderly, quality of life