Portsmouth academic’s dementia project shortlisted for RIBA President’s Awards for Research 2016

A Portsmouth academic’s research project has been shortlisted for an award by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Dia Soilemezi has been shortlisted for a prestigious award for her PhD research.

Dia Soilemezi’s PhD, which investigated the impact of the home environment in dementia care, was nominated in the Cities and Communities category of the RIBA President’s Awards for Research 2016.

Dia, a research fellow in School of Health Sciences and Social Work, at the University of Portsmouth, said:

I am delighted and honoured that, out of 75 submissions from 14 countries, my PhD research has been recognised with such a prestigious award nomination.

For people with dementia and their family carers, who spend a lot of time indoors and face various challenges, a suitable home is very important and should not be underestimated.

My research indicated that home, although of paramount importance, can also be a place of risks and tensions. As a result, the meaning and experience of home are likely to change while the illness and the homes are changing.

Life at home with dementia can sometimes be unpredictable, so home environments needs to remain flexible to meet people’s needs.

Aspects of the architectural and interior environment, such as layout and size, can be problematic, but when adapted appropriately they can encourage independence and comfort at home.

The annual awards celebrate the best research in the fields of architecture and the built environment.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony in December.