My significant other had a birthday a few days back and it got me thinking about our future together and my ongoing roll as personal Designer to my family, friends, and loved ones. I refer to myself as a "Designer" just as loosely and broad scoping as the term reflects due to the nature of my abilities, interests, and ever evolving specific needs of my clients and acquaintances. As a wise man and fellow "Designer" once said, "The only thing certain in life is death and taxes" -Benjamin Franklin. As uncertain and unpredictable as our futures may be, (and as vague and far-reaching as my calling card may portray), there is one thing we all know to be true... We are all getting older!
The online resource BBHQ: Boomer Statistics states that after WWII between the years of 1946 and 1964, the United States experienced it's greatest baby birth explosion with 76 million births. Those "baby boomers" as they are now referred to range between the ages of 49 and 67 and make up 26 percent of the total population in America, one of the biggest and most influential sectors of our economy. As the age of our country increases, so too does the emphasis on social services involving senior care and quality of life and the need for Design professionals that specialize in senior care facilities and individual housing needs of the elderly.
Emily Henderson, a professional designer and winner of HGTV's "Design Star" and host of the HGTV's show "Secrets of a Stylist" have teamed up with Sunrise Senior Living communities to provided an extensive guide and online resource for people considering moving to a senior assisted community and ways to incorporate "form and function to create a senior friendly environment designed for comfort, convenience, and safety.
The following are a few bulleted examples that have been laid out by Emily Henderson and Sunrise design Team in their 2013 Design Guide:
http://www.sunriseseniorliving.com/the-sunrise-difference/design.aspx
PLAN A SMOOTH TRANSITION:
Moving into new living situation can be one of life's BIGGEST stressors for anyone. By adhering to a few helpful Do's / Don'ts you can help to provide your loved one with a welcomed move.
Do:
-Consider the size and layout of the space and only bring items that will fit comfortably
-Outline a list of key elements that incorporate your favorite daily activities
-Get creative: Recreate elements from previous homes into your new "smaller" space
Don't:
-Make moving and packing decisions alone
-Leave loved ones out of the process
-Waste money on new accessories
STRATEGIES FOR SAFETY AND COMFORT:
-Finesse the Furniture by placing items that can be used for balance and keep the pathways clear for needed devices such as walkers and wheelchairs
-Improve Access by keeping everyday items waist high in cabinets and drawers, place phones near beds and seating areas, situate lighting for ease of access and operation and outfit dressers and drawers with pulls for easy grip
-Prevent Falls by using slip resistant contrasting colored rugs that stand out from floors and hide electrical cords behind furniture or enclose them inside cord management products
-Increase Visibility by creating strong contrasts between large furniture, walls, drapes, and floors. Use lots of natural light during the day and provide for well lighted paths and walkways through out the night
-Create a Fall-Proof Bathroom by placing seating near the sink and in the shower for ease and comfort while grooming. Install non-slip strips and bars around the tub, sink and shower
DESIGN SOLUTIONS FOR AGING EYESIGHT:
-Create strong color contrasts between major pieces of furniture
-Outline windows with curtains and add cording to seating
-Use natural light to illuminate the space and help with sleep cycles
-Keep reading areas well lit and add under-cabinet lighting for food prep
-Use warm color palettes with warm reds and golds that are more distinguishable to aging eyes
-Incorporate nightlights and motion-sensor lights along pathways for easier navigation and reduce risk of falls
-Choose artwork and accessories that are bright, crisp and clear
-Minimize reflective surfaces that can reflect light
CREATING FAMILIAR SPACES FOR MEMORY SUPPORT:
-Thoughtful design engages the senses, (such as sight, smell, taste, and touch) and helps to develop an environment that is therapeutic, creates security and promotes self esteem.
MAKING YOUR SPACE UNIQUE:
-Ones personal space should reflect individual tastes and interests
-Encourage social interaction by providing a guest seating, grouping furniture that promotes conversation, and display personal elements such as art, photos, awards and keepsakes that can open up a personal dialog with guest
BEFORE & AFTER:
BEDROOM
LIVING ROOM
WORK AREA
