Focus: Facility Design

Design elements can engage senior patients

Elderly patients can have visual, audio and tactile needs


When designing acute-care patient rooms, designers may not consider that a high percentage of patients are senior citizens, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.

Sensory perceptions, including visual, lighting, audio, tactile and communication, should be considered.

There are many visual factors that could improve a senior’s experience in a hospital. One is limiting the use of blues and greens, since they are often indistinguishable and sometimes look gray to seniors.

Depth perception can be a challenge for senior patients. Using materials with high contrasts, such as placing a light beige chair on a darker wood floor, is very important.

Read the article.

 

 



October 25, 2016


Topic Area: Interior Design


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