Tempe makes space for people with dementia and their caregivers

Tempe, Arizona, is developing a dedicated outdoor space for older residents, people living with dementia and their caregivers. The city announced the project on September 3, with further coverage published by Axios the following day.

The proposed space will sit within Kiwanis Park, in the former Tempe Sister Cities garden off All-America Way. City plans include broad shaded paths, supportive seating, a covered gathering area and sensory planting, enclosed by fencing and situated near parking and restrooms.

Councilmembers Nikki Amberg and Doreen Garlid are leading the project. Both have personal experience of dementia in their families.

Architectural firm Architekton is donating design work. Tempe says it is seeking grants for permitting and construction, with its capital improvement funding covering costs not met by grants. The city also announced plans for donations through Tempe Diablos Charities.

The September announcement describes a park in development. It should not be read as an invitation to visit a completed facility.

Sources:

• City of Tempe: Dementia and Age-Friendly Park announcement

• Axios Phoenix: Tempe plans dementia-friendly park

Photo: Hunter Trick (TrickHunter), Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized and cropped for display. Kiwanis Park, November 2023.