Show Notes
What would it look like if our public spaces were designed to include people living with dementia?
In this special episode of The Dementia Collective, Andrew Karesa sits down with Junette Huynh, Director of Projects, and Lindsay Paul, Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships at Parks Foundation Calgary, to explore the story behind the Martin Family Legacy Garden, Canada’s first dementia-inclusive public park.
Opening in Calgary’s Dover community, the park was shaped through years of collaboration with Alzheimer Calgary, people living with dementia, caregivers, researchers, community organizations, and other partners. Junette and Lindsay explain how those perspectives influenced everything from colour-coordinated walking loops and wayfinding to accessible pathways, familiar furnishings, sensory elements, quiet spaces, and an intergenerational playground.
In this episode: How Canada’s first dementia-inclusive public park came to be What actually makes a park dementia inclusive The principles of design Why walking loops, wayfinding, familiar design, and accessible pathways matter The role of intergenerational spaces in reducing dementia stigma How philanthropy and community partnerships brought the project to life How the park will be used for programming and future research How dementia-inclusive design could be incorporated into parks across Canada
This is a conversation about dementia, accessibility, independence, community, and what can happen when we design public spaces with people living with dementia in mind.
Learn more at: https://www.bluebellvillage.ca https://parksfoundation.ca/projects-and-partnerships/dementia-inclusive-park/
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This episode is brought to you by Eugeria. Check out their website for dementia products you can trust.
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information only, not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider about your health. In an emergency, contact local emergency services. Guests’ views are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Andrew Karesa or blueBell Village Ltd. Third-party references are for information only, not endorsements. You use this podcast at your own risk. Andrew Karesa, blueBell Village Ltd., and their team are not liable for any loss, injury, or damage arising from its use.
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