Dementia Lab 2021: Supporting Ability Through Design

This book gathers revised and selected contributions to the 5th Dementia Lab Conference, D-Lab 2021, organized online on January 18-28, 2021, from the Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Vancouver, Canada. It describes original strategies in which design or creative methods have been shown to uncover, support and enhance the abilities of people living with dementia. Papers report on new ideas and findings relating to three main themes: engagement, empowerment and identity. They cover: ethics of inclusion and solutions for shifting the culture of care to be focused on both personal independence and reconnecting with the community; new ways of designing with people living with dementia; strategies for breaking negative stereotypes and preconceived opinions; and approaches to retaining personhood and dignity. Offering a timely source of information on new design and creative methods to a broad community of industrial, communication, interactive and inclusive designers, this book is also meant to address and inspire various stakeholders and organizations in dementia care.