Canada’s first ‘dementia-inclusive’ park set to open in Calgary in fall 2026

Canada’s first ‘dementia-inclusive’ park is set to open in Calgary in the fall of 2026, marking a significant step toward making public spaces more accessible and supportive for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. The Martin Family Legacy Garden, located within the Southview Park in the Dover neighborhood, will officially open on September 21, coinciding with World Alzheimer’s Day. Designed with input from dementia researchers, healthcare professionals, community advocates, and families directly impacted by the condition, the park aims to provide a safe, engaging environment for people of all ages. The park’s design incorporates several thoughtful features aimed at enhancing the experience for individuals with dementia. These include wide, color-coded pathways that aid navigation, flat terrain to reduce physical strain, and enhanced signage for clarity. Shaded seating areas and sensory gardens with a diverse selection of plants are also planned, offering both visual and tactile stimulation. A children’s playground has been included to encourage intergenerational interaction, ensuring the space serves multiple age groups. The inclusion of such elements reflects a growing awareness of how environmental design can support cognitive well-being. The choice of location within Southview Park was deliberate, as it is conveniently situated near seniors’ residences and public transportation hubs. This strategic placement ensures that the park is easily accessible to those who may require assistance in mobility or daily activities. The site also offers ample opportunities for social engagement, further aligning with the goal of fostering inclusivity. The park’s design process emphasized collaboration, with input from organizations such as Alzheimer’s Calgary and academic institutions including the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University. Community members with firsthand experience of dementia care played a key role in shaping the final layout. Joe Rau, senior project manager with the Parks Foundation Calgary, highlighted the importance of designing a space that caters to all generations. He noted that families affected by dementia often face challenges in finding environments that accommodate both the individual with the condition and their loved ones. By integrating recreational facilities and promoting shared activities, the park seeks to create a sense of belonging and normalcy for visitors. The inclusion of a playground underscores the intention to build a community hub that supports both children and adults. Programming for the park includes a range of activities tailored to meet the needs of different users. Ideas under consideration include guided birdwatching sessions, walking and wheelchair-friendly group outings, and family-oriented picnic events. These initiatives aim to foster social connections while providing structured, low-stress experiences. The Parks Foundation Calgary has already received inquiries from representatives in other Canadian cities interested in replicating the model, indicating a broader interest in developing dementia-inclusive spaces nationwide. The Dementia Network of Calgary praised the initiative as a positive shift toward greater societal inclusion. According to their data, approximately 20,000 residents in Calgary currently live with dementia, with an additional 2,800 expected to receive diagnoses this year. Projections suggest that Alberta could see a 286 percent increase in the number of people living with dementia between 2020 and 2050. As the population ages, the need for accessible, supportive public spaces becomes increasingly urgent. The opening of the Martin Family Legacy Garden is viewed as a proactive response to these demographic trends.