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Abstract
Minimizing agitation as a result of Alzheimers disease is a major challenge fordesigners of therapeutic gardens for these patients. This thesis demonstrates how toimprove the overall design, layout, and function of therapeutic gardens to alleviateagitation of Alzheimers disease and dementia patients. Through the use of horticulturetherapy, as well as the consideration of music therapy, light therapy, physical activities and reminiscence therapy in a therapeutic garden, improvements can be made in the overall method and design to address the needs of Alzheimers patients. This thesis asks the question: What design strategies can minimize stress and reduce agitation for patients at different stages of Alzheimers disease and dementia? Therapeutic gardens are an alternative method in treating and rehabilitating patients. With the ever-increasing popularity and widespread acknowledgement of the positive effects therapeutic gardens are bringing to hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities, it is imperative for Alzheimers and dementia care facilities to consider location, orientation, types of plants, accommodations and arrangements, and security for their patients. Through the use of descriptive strategies including a questionnaire and case studies, improvements on existing therapeutic gardens are feasible. The thesis offers a new design scheme for the therapeutic garden at A.G.Rhodes and serves as a model for the future designs of new facilities.