Simple changes to the design of our whare could make a significant difference for kaumātua and whānau living with mate wareware, or dementia.
Architectural designer and researcher Keisha Rawiri, from the University of Auckland’s Centre for Co-Created Ageing Research, is helping develop kaupapa Māori design principles aimed at creating safer, calmer and more supportive living environments.
The approach incorporates wairuatanga, whanaungatanga, māramatanga and manaakitanga, alongside the relationship between people, their whare and the whenua. Connections with nature, daylight, weather and seasonal changes can also help people living with mate wareware remain oriented and connected to their surroundings.
Researchers say everyday features such as patterned flooring, poorly contrasting furniture, mirrors and modern touchscreen controls can become confusing or difficult to navigate. Relatively simple changes — including clearer colour contrasts, visible taps and light switches and removing trip hazards — can make homes safer.
With an estimated 83,000 New Zealanders currently living with dementia, and that number projected to nearly double by 2050, researchers say designing environments that allow people to maintain dignity, independence and connections with whānau will become increasingly important.
Keisha Rawiri joins Radio Waatea to discuss how kaupapa Māori can help reshape the way Aotearoa designs homes and care environments for people living with mate wareware.
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