Resources for the Elderly: Designing Facilities and Creating Publications
Designing facilities for the elderly
The design of any facility must take into account the fact that many people have special needs. The elderly population is certainly no exception. Increasing age or the presence of disease can impact the ability to carry out day-to-day activities. The various sections found here offer some suggestions for the design or modification of facilities to meet the needs of an aging population.
Written publications are often difficult for people to read and understand. This can be especially challenging for the elderly, as they often have problems with vision or impaired cognitive abilities. Reading and comprehension can be enhanced through the proper use of the techniques outlined below.
PLEASE NOTE: This document contains examples that demonstrate the use of effective and ineffective text, including formatting such as colors and fonts. These formatted examples appear on the printable (PDF) version only. They will not appear on the hyperlinked, bulleted text below.
Lighting: due to changes in vision that come with age, appropriate lighting and glare reduction are essential in any environment utilized by the elderly.
Colors: used correctly, color can help to promote positive moods and desired levels of activity among people. Color also aids in achieving the desired lighting for a room.
Noise control: reducing noise pollution in the environment can greatly improve auditory function for the elderly, decreasing stress and promoting better health.
Cues: the placement of various objects, such as signs or particular furnishings, can provide cueing and reinforce memory for the elderly.
Comfort: physical and psychological comfort for the elderly can be achieved through the appropriate use of furniture, lighting , color and options for privacy or social interaction.
Mobility: promote independence for an elderly person by creating an environment conducive to mobility. This can be accomplished through the materials used in a facility and the placement of furnishings.
Furniture: the placement of furniture in a room affects the way older people use the room. Furniture placement is also a safety issue for those who may be prone to falls.
Safety: placement of furniture, the installation of safety devices, and proper lighting all contribute to a safe environment for elderly people who may be prone to falls and other dangers.
Tips on creating publications for the elderly
Print settings: the size and style of print used for a document have a great impact on its readability.
Contrast: the print of a document must contrast with its background to be seen and read clearly.
Writing style: the way a document is written will affect its readability. This includes the language used in the document and the reading level of the text.
Spacing: the readability of a document is also determined by the spacing used around various parts of the text.
Highlighting information: formatting and highlighting text makes the most important information easily accessible.
Format: the layout of any document is an important consideration in making the material readable.
Illustrations: pictures or diagrams may be helpful for those people who have trouble reading and might learn better from a spatial presentation of ideas.
