With a rapidly increasing life expectancy across the world, the population of older people is rapidly increasing hence the increased demand for facilities catering for their needs. In order to cater for their needs, architects, builders, and other parties concerned need to develop new innovative designs to cater for the needs of the older generation. Here, we offer you some tips to enable you to undertake a proper design for elderly people.
Simplicity
As people age, certain physiological and cognitive changes lower their brain power and hinder their mobility. A good design ought to be simple to use with instructions in a simple language easy to understand. Devises need to use simple to use technology. The design ought to offer more comfort and a tranquil environment free from distractions for relaxation.
Visual Elements
Loss of sight is one of the most common disabilities that comes with old age. Designers need to put into consideration the weakened sense of sight in the older generation and provide maximum lighting while also considering the effects of UV light on their eyes. Moreover, appliance buttons need to be large and well labeled with visible colors and lighting.
Comfort
Older people tend to suffer from weaker muscles and a fragile spine. This poses the need to have a gentle resting area especially the bed and seats need to be soft and comfortable and well designed for resting for the elderly. The beds and seats need to have features to enable them to do minor tasks like eating or turning lights on and off easily.
Bathrooms Safety Designs
The bathroom is regarded as a dangerous room in the house due to its many cases of fatal accidents. When designing a facility for the elderly, we recommend that these rooms be equipped with facilities that enhance comfort and to reduce the risk of slip and falls. Designers can consider ample lighting, non-slippery floors and handles to avoid risks of falling and injuries.
Conclusion
Given the fragility of the older generation and the complex issues that come with age, designers need to consider their case when developing spaces for the older generation. We recommend trying the above tips in your next design.
References: TopTal, ConstructioninFocus
