Designing for geriatric patients

Older patients present healthcare facilities with a unique set of concerns


Older patients present healthcare facilities with a unique set of concerns, including co-morbidities, chronic illnesses, cognitive and psychiatric needs, problems with activities of daily living, sensory issues and the need for socialization, according to an article on the Medical Construction & Design website.

Many of the best healthcare facilities incorporate solutions that would be the basis of a “silver standard” by combining Evidence-Based Design research, best practices and creative design, the article said.

For instance, providing daylight, especially morning light, has been shown to improve mood and sleep quality and decrease the need for anxiety and sleep medications in older adults. 

Also, some positive stimulation — sound from water or music, colors, light, sculpture, art and other environmental elements can help to foster well-being.

Read the article.

 

 



June 8, 2015


Topic Area: Architecture


Recent Posts

Mature Dry Surface Biofilm Presents a Problem for Candida Auris

Multiple methods are described in the literature, but no consensus has been reached for disinfection efficacy tests against biofilms.


Sutter Health's Arden Care Center Officially Opens

With an adaptive reuse of an underutilized office building, the 70,000 square-foot facility was renovated to meet current healthcare standards.


Insight Hospital and Medical Center Falls to Data Breach

The investigation determined that an unauthorized individual accessed the network between August 22, 2025, and September 11, 2025.


The High Cost of Healthcare Violence

As workplace violence increases, healthcare facilities face mounting financial and operational disruptions- prompting legislative action.


EVS Teams Can Improve Patient Experience in Emergency Departments

A report confirmed that cleanliness of the ED was the third most impactful element on patient experience surveys.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.