Environmental Design for Alzheimer Patients

Please, come with us on a virtual tour of the Dolan Center's architectural highlights:

• Interior Common Area (234k)
• Typical Resident Room (209k)
• Outdoor Therapeutic Park (309k)

Note: The above pages require Java and larger downloads, so please be patient...they're worth the wait!

The Corinne Dolan Alzheimer Center reflects an environmental response to the special needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Architect Stephen Nemtin of Taliesin Associated Architects, a subsidiary of The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation of Scottsdale, Arizona, designed the building to maximize independence and improve the quality of life of the participants.

To promote freedom within a secure setting, a two-acre therapeutic park was developed in cooperation with The Holden Arboretum's Horticultural Therapy Department. Therapeutic gardens, park areas, and horticultural programming have been designed to meet the unique needs of Alzheimer patients.

Within the Center are two identical units, each serving 12 residents. Private rooms with picture windows offer each resident an ever-changing seasonal view of Heather Hill's rustic setting. Residents are encouraged to bring a piece of home with them by furnishing their own rooms. Each room opens onto a lofty interior brightened with natural light.

Adjacent to every doorway is an interior walking path. A secure outdoor walkway also surrounds the building. Both are designed to encourage exercise in a safe, controlled environment.

Each residential unit focuses on a home activity center and gracious dining area. Participant program groups have access to a number of spaces for activities, including a craft studio.

The homelike plan of each unit is complemented by a cozy family room. In addition, a large living room with a fireplace and a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape is a pleasant meeting place for families and participants.

The Dolan Center could not have become a reality without the shared vision of the Dolan Family, which donated $2.4 million toward the initial design. The Dolan Family's commitment to Alzheimer's research recently inspired a $2.7 million donation toward expansion of the Dolan Center. 

The new addition has 12 beds, dually certified for Medicare/Medicaid. We see this is a true fit to our care continuum. The Dolan Center licensure is as a residential care facility, but the addition is licensed as long-term care. It is connected to current Dolan Center with a beautiful atrium that is accessible to residents of both the current building and the addition.

The Dolan Center is part of Heather Hill's Continuum of Dementia Services. 

Use our interactive contact form to schedule a tour of the Dolan Center.