Arquitetura e Experiência Terapêutica. Princípios de desenho e boas práticas em unidades de Cuidados Paliativos e Cuidados Continuados

Abstract

Demographic ageing, the increasing incidence of chronic and degenerative diseases, and the worsening of social isolation reflect a scenario of growing vulnerability that has led to a rising demand for more specialized healthcare. In this context, Palliative Care Units and Long-Term Care Units gain particular relevance by integrating, in addition to specific medical care, spatial responses that are coherent with human needs. This dissertation aims to study these care typologies and contribute to the identification and discussion of architectural strategies that respond to the contemporary challenges of healthcare. Through the analysis of key design principles essential to the development of therapeutic environments, it seeks to reflect on the contribution of the built space to the well-being, autonomy, and dignity of the patient. In its initial phase, the research is grounded in a comprehensive literature review across different historical moments, aiming to understand how architectural space can support both physical and mental health. The dissertation is structured around three core design principles, the interior-exterior relationship, the positive use of circulation spaces, and the potential for transformation and appropriation of space by the patient. This principles prove to be crucial in enhancing the patient experience in long-term care settings. The analysis focuses on four case studies, two in Portugal and two in the European context, whose architectural approaches raise pertinent questions and allow for the identification of both good practices and design shortcomings. At last, this study seeks to offer a critical perspective on design strategies capable of supporting patient in contexts of heightened vulnerability, while, exploring the potential of spatial configuration as an active and stimulating agent in the therapeutic process, extending that dimension to the entire architectural experience, rather than limiting it to specific areas or programmatic functions.