Abstract

EVALUATING THERAPEUTIC LANDSCAPES: AN APPROACH TO DESIGNING HEALING GARDEN FOR ALZHEIMER'S PATIENTS IN ANTALYA, TURKIYE

Candan Kus Sahin* and Merve Erbek

Abstract

The aim of the study was to prepare a landscape design project for Alzheimer’s patients in a specially reserved area in Dosemealtı district of Antalya province, in Turkiye. The SWOT analysis have been used for assessment of reserved area. The evaluation with determining suitability of this area was made under the Landscape Architecture discipline. The projected area looks like appropriate in terms of creating or projecting a healing garden for Alzheimer’s. The location is far enough from the city center (25 km away). Around this area, there is a mountain view with a maquis area. The design project has a single entry and/or exit door to the garden with a simple road system. The garden consists of a one-piece road with a limiting coating on its edges. In addition, it is ensured that patients can walk without worry and minimize the possibility of harm to themselves or others. In the gardens to be arranged for Alzheimer's patients, the structural and plant materials are important for the improvement of the patients, feeling themselves comfortable and peaceful, receiving positive energy and effective use. It is important to have a sustainable design in such gardens. Hence the garden is protected from the sun and the wind and enlightenment is provided by using lighting elements. The nonpoisonous and non-toxic plants have been recommended for this therapeutic landscapes project.

Keywords: Landscape Architecture, garden design, plant material, Alzheimer’s, Antalya, SWOT analysis.