DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/4133-KN27
Defense Date
2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Design
First Advisor
Roberto Ventura
Second Advisor
Rab McClure
Third Advisor
Christiana Lafazani
Abstract
This is a project that explores how design can integrate medical treatment and community support. The high prevalence of chronic disease is creating a national healthcare crisis. Chronic disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Consideration of a holistic sense of well-being that focuses on disease resistance, resilience, and self-management is necessary to realize and sustain health outcomes. Community engagement is imperative to improve adherence rates for lifestyle changes. This project aims to design a community wellness space that is focused on prevention, resilience and self-management. A new typology of a community-anchored wellness clinic could provide an environment to support positive change. This clinic will be a new model of care by combining the necessary access to fitness, healthy food and health care while fostering community, and providing patient education and emotional support.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-7-2015