Settled-in: Designing for Comfort in Older Adult Congregate Housing in Oklahoma

Abstract

This multi-method study explores the effect of interior design on the comfort of older adults in assisted living and proposes an interior design prototype for an assisted living resident room for an older adult in Oklahoma. The research includes a survey of older adults (n=25), which asked participants to evaluate certain interior design features in terms of their effect on the participants' comfort and dignity, as well as site tours of existing assisted living facilities in Oklahoma. A design prototype was developed based on the survey and tour results, which was refined after evaluation by a focus group of experts in the area of older adults and older adult housing. Survey results indicated that older adults believed certain interior design features were more supportive of their comfort and dignity. The proposed design supports the comfort of older adult residents through the use of smooth textures, warm temperatures, cool colors, sunlight, and vegetation. The design supports the dignity of older adult residents through the use of high ceilings, smooth textures, warm temperatures, cool colors, bright light, sunlight, and vegetation. Depression and isolation were addressed through the inclusion of semi-private spaces and areas for entertaining and hosting. Loss of mobility was addressed through the use of accessible design features and the inclusion of opportunities for physical exercise. Dementia issues were addressed through the use of transparency and a simple floor plan. The intentional incorporation of environmental support for not only the physical and mental challenges faced by older adults in assisted living, but also the more subtle challenges to their comfort and dignity, has the potential to greatly improve the quality of life enjoyed by these individuals.