How is todey the proposed accommodation in France designed for people with Alzheimer's disease and their families? It is to this architecture, social and spatial analysis of three different types of places (dedicated units, specialized retirement homes and innovative projects) that the student researcher has devoted himself for three years. The first two housing models studied have the goal of controlling all aspects of the disease in a closed environment or to respect all the needs of the resident (illness, leisure, etc.) by creating a life of self-sufficiency. The third model, illustrated in her thesis by the village Landais Alzheimer, made it possible to present a much more inclusive logic in her research. "The design of this innovative establishment relegates the pathology to the background. It allows integrated care and invisible management," explores Manon Labarchède.
Support the thought of the designers of future reception areas
Indeed, an architectural form can promote integration and go beyond the needs of the disease. With swings and rocking games in the court, the aim of the promoters to create a welcoming place also for the grandchildren of the villagers is clearly visible. "It's the same for the cultural life of the residential district in which the establishment is located. The cultural facilities available here will be a great source of dynamism for this territory. The village becomes, thanks to this design of the equipment, a real place of life, beyond the disease [2] ".
The purpose of Manon Labarchède's thesis is to support the thinking of hosting facility designers for people with Alzheimer's disease because the shape of future establishments will have a decisive impact on the care of people who will be hosted there.
Complete thesis of Manon Labarchède "Areas of Alzheimer's disease: living conditions, accommodation and reception" is available online: http://www.theses.fr/2021BORD
[1] Profession Architecture Ville Environnement
