  Healing Spaces proposes a new approach to multisensory interventions that
show potential in ameliorating the behavioral and psychological symptoms of
advanced dementia in older adults. Using smart technology, the project combines
both digital and physical components to transform spaces and create unified,
curated sensory experiences that provide meaningful context for interaction,
and are easy for caregivers to deliver. A usability study was conducted for the
Healing Spaces app followed by a feasibility evaluation of the full experience
in a memory care facility recruiting caregivers, and residents in advanced
stages of dementia. The feasibility evaluation successfully illuminated
strengths as well as areas for improvement for the Healing Spaces experience in
a memory care setting with older adults with advanced dementia. Caregivers and
facility managers expressed interest in continuing to use Healing Spaces with
the residents of the facility. Lessons learned about the technical and
logistical implementation of Healing Spaces are discussed, as well as future
directions for study design and potential therapeutic value of the experience.
