lightbulbs going on

My conversation with Linda today sparked some new ideas about defining my research topic. I think my research question needs to change.

"How can design support Culture Change in Memory Support environments?"

I know that I will need to define Culture Change as well as Memory Support as being a part of the larger senior care community.

My hypothesis will change too.

"Residents in Memory Support environments can benefit from the principles of Culture Change, despite their cognitive challenges."

I have a lot of work to do tonight to get this presentation ready in 2 days!

community contacts

I had a great conversation over lunch today with Linda Gabel of NBBJ (thanks, Liz) about research directions and her thoughts on senior care. One of her concerns in the healthcare market is the issue of bariatrics as an underserved and underresearched population.

Some of the questions that came out of that discussion are:
How are blended units working with Alzheimers/Parkinsons/mental health issues?
What is comforting or means home to residents vs. family members? (facilities are really marketing to families)
How are the concepts of culture change going to apply to dementia care residents?

She had great contacts for me too, such as Jane Rhoady and Betsey Brawley, Donna Mullins, and Lisa Cini of Mosaic. I will definitely be following up with these people as I go.