Metro Vancouver study urges planners to design for dementia
SFU research finds that busy streets, poor sidewalks, and lack of rest spaces create outsized barriers for people living with dementia.
Simon Fraser University researchers are pushing city planners across Metro Vancouver to rethink urban design with people living with dementia in mind.
A new study found that everyday obstacles—crowded streets, cyclists and e-scooters on walkalks, broken sidewalks, short crossing times—hit harder for people with dementia than for most residents. Unmaintained pavement causes fear of falling. Confusing intersections spike anxiety. Missing washrooms and rest spots can force people indoors.
Kishore Seetharaman, the lead researcher, said the problem isn't overt discrimination but a lack of awareness. "There's just a lack of knowledge about their needs," he said.
The team interviewed and walked with 14 people living with dementia across the region, then shared findings with municipal planners. The response was openness—planners acknowledged shortcomings, though financial constraints make regular maintenance and washroom upkeep challenging.
The research points to two design fixes: "legibility" (sidewalks and streets that clearly signal where to go) and "distinctiveness" (landmarks like art that help people orient themselves). Seetharaman said the city should deepen engagement with people living with dementia when planning neighborhoods. "The built environment has an important role in everyday life," he said.
Good urban design doesn't just serve one group—it makes the whole city easier to navigate.