Gruham Living For The Elderly
Gruham Living For The Elderly
Gruham Living For The Elderly
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
PULCHOWK CAMPUS
PULCHOWK, LALITPUR
A THESIS REPORT
ON
SUBMITTED BY
SHIVANI KARN
074-BAE-234
THESIS SUPERVISOR
DATE: 2079-12-30
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that this thesis entitled - “GRUHAM: LIVING FOR THE
ELDERLY”submitted by Shivani Karn (074-BAE-234) has been examined and it
has been declared successful for the partial fulfillment of the academic requirement
towards the completion of the degree of Bachelor of Architecture.
……………………………
Date: …………………………………
ii
DECLARATION
I declare that this dissertation has not been previously accepted in substance for
any degree and is not being concurrently submitted in candidature for any degree.
I state that this dissertation is the result of my own independent work/investigation,
except where otherwise stated. I hereby give consent for my dissertation, if
accepted, to be available for photocopyingand understand that any reference to or
quotation from my thesis will receive an acknowledgment.
………………………
Shivani Karn
074-BAE-234
Date: …………………..
iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The success and outcome of this report required a lot of guidance and assistance from
many people. It would not have been possible to complete the task without the kind
and generous help of various individuals.
I must express my gratitude to all the staff and personnel of the places that I went for
case studies, for their cordial support while doing my research for this project.
I would also like to thank all the teachers in the department of architecture, Pulchowk
campus, seniors, juniors, and my friends for their effort.
And lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who are directly or
indirectly involved in the process.
Shivani Karn
074-BAE-234
iv
ABSTRACT
Aging is a natural part of the human life cycle. Nobody can escape becoming old if they
live a long life. People gain experiences and wisdom at the price of their age. We might
think of an aged person as book rich with life wisdom. The entire globe is currently
experiencing global aging. The population of older citizens over the age of 60 is
expected to double in the next ten years. Old people’s homes are socio-cultural
institutions having economic, psychological, and spiritual components. The care of a
society's older citizens has been a societal priority since ancient times. To achieve such
social ideals, society has established rules such as "we must respect the elderly and love
the juniors." furthermore, society accepts it because everyone will become old one day.
However, in practice, values might conflict owing to numerous socioeconomic
conditions, between individuals and society, and between generations. This difference
in values is what makes older citizens a concern and their care a difficulty. As a result,
the greatest choice is to support and create an atmosphere conducive to the formation
of elderly homes at the community level.
This study demonstrates the lack of older persons in public discussions concerning age-
appropriate design. The overarching conclusion of this report is that architecture for the
elderly is a unique type of space that necessitates a multidisciplinary approach
involving dependent seniors, architects, building contractors, and care planners to
create empathic architectural designs for aging. This technique is active both
conceptually and in terms of implementation.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CERTIFICATE ..................................................................................................................................... II
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ...................................................................................................................IV
ABSTRACT ........................................................................................................................................... V
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. 1
vi
II. AGING IN NEPAL .............................................................................................................. 13
1.10. DIVERSITY IN AGING ..................................................................................................... 17
1.11. GOVERNMENT PLANS AND POLICIES FOR AGED PEOPLE .................................... 18
I. NATIONAL PLANS ............................................................................................................. 18
II. HEALTH AND CARE .......................................................................................................... 19
III. ASSOCIATIONS OF SENIOR CITIZENS ........................................................................... 20
IV. GOVERNMENT PENSION ................................................................................................. 20
1.12. SEMANTICS OF AGEING ................................................................................................ 21
1.13. OLD AGE HOME ............................................................................................................... 21
I. TYPES OF OLD AGE HOME: ............................................................................................ 22
1.1.1.3 INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES......................................................................... 22
1.1.1.4 ASSISTED LIVING .............................................................................................................. 22
1.1.1.5 NURSING OR CARE HOMES ............................................................................................. 23
1.1.1.6 IN-HOME CARE ................................................................................................................... 23
1.1.1.7 TEMPORARY CARE DAYCARE ....................................................................................... 23
1.1.1.8 CONTINUOUS OR HYBRID CARE.................................................................................... 23
1.1.1.9 PALLIATIVE CARE ............................................................................................................. 23
II. OLD AGE HOME IN NEPAL ............................................................................................. 24
1.14. ENVIRONMENT FOR THE CARE OF ELDERLY .......................................................... 25
I. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................... 25
II. BUILT ENVIRONMENT ..................................................................................................... 26
1.15. RETHINKING ARCHITECTURE OF OLD AGE HOME ................................................. 27
I. USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN ................................................................................................ 28
II. LANDSCAPE DESIGN ....................................................................................................... 29
III. ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION SPACE ............................................................... 30
IV. SAFETY ............................................................................................................................... 31
V. HEALTH .............................................................................................................................. 32
VI. LIGHTING .......................................................................................................................... 33
VII. PERSONAL SPACE........................................................................................................ 34
1.16. DESIGN FEATURES ......................................................................................................... 35
I. UNIVERSAL DESIGN ......................................................................................................... 37
1.1.1.10 LOCATION ........................................................................................................................... 37
1.1.1.11 PARKING .............................................................................................................................. 39
1.1.1.12 ENTRY/EXIT ........................................................................................................................ 40
1.1.1.13 LIVING AREA ...................................................................................................................... 41
1.1.1.14 BEDROOM ............................................................................................................................ 44
1.1.1.15 KITCHEN .............................................................................................................................. 47
1.1.1.16 DINING ................................................................................................................................. 50
1.1.1.17 BATHROOM ......................................................................................................................... 51
1.1.1.18 LAUNDRY ............................................................................................................................ 53
1.1.1.19 STAIRCASE .......................................................................................................................... 54
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1.1.1.20 RAMPS .................................................................................................................................. 55
1.1.1.21 PLATFORM AND LANDINGS ............................................................................................ 55
1.1.1.22 CORRIDORS ......................................................................................................................... 56
1.1.1.23 DOOR .................................................................................................................................... 57
1.1.1.24 WINDOW .............................................................................................................................. 57
II. PASSIVE DESIGN TECHNIQUES ..................................................................................... 58
1.1.3.1 Site selection .......................................................................................................................... 58
1.1.3.2 Orientation ............................................................................................................................. 59
1.1.3.3 Window placement ................................................................................................................. 59
1.1.3.4 Shading .................................................................................................................................. 59
1.1.3.5 Room layout ........................................................................................................................... 59
1.1.3.6 Insulation................................................................................................................................ 59
1.1.3.7 Air-sealing.............................................................................................................................. 59
1.1.3.8 Ventilation.............................................................................................................................. 59
1.1.3.9 Thermal mass ......................................................................................................................... 59
1.1.3.10 Landscaping ........................................................................................................................... 59
III. CONSIDERATIONS OF PASSIVE DESIGN TECHNIQUE ................................................ 60
1.1.3.1 Passive ventilation .................................................................................................................. 60
1.1.3.2 Passive cooling ....................................................................................................................... 60
1.1.3.3 Daylighting............................................................................................................................. 61
1.1.3.4 Green wall, roof garden .......................................................................................................... 62
1.1.3.5 Outdoor spaces ....................................................................................................................... 62
1.1.3.6 Landscape design ................................................................................................................... 65
1.17. SENSORY EXPERIENCE ................................................................................................. 66
I. LIGHT ................................................................................................................................. 67
II. COLOR ................................................................................................................................ 68
III. SOUND ............................................................................................................................... 69
IV. MATERIAL SELECTION .................................................................................................... 70
V. TEMPERATURE ................................................................................................................. 71
1.18. RESEARCH PAPER SUMMARY ..................................................................................... 71
I. RESEARCH PAPER 1:........................................................................................................ 71
II. RESEARCH PAPER 2:........................................................................................................ 72
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2 Maps of the percentage of population aged 60 years or over in 2015 ........... 12
Figure 3 Maps of the percentage of population aged 60 years or over in 2050 ........... 12
xi
Figure 21 Living/dining room for 4-5 people .............................................................. 44
o 18" clearance between twin bed and wall for ease of bed making.
Figure 23 One Room Apartment For Elderly .............................................................. 46
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Figure 62 Sketch of zoning .......................................................................................... 95
xiv
Figure 83 Entrance ..................................................................................................... 106
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Figure 104 planning ................................................................................................... 129
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 2 aging population, life expectancy, dependency ratio of nepal 2019, 2050 ..... 16
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INTRODUCTION
1.1. BACKGROUND
“The more one studies space and the longer one contemplates it (not only visually and
intellectually but involving all the human senses and the entire body), one acquires a
better broader understanding of the conflicts that are active in space. These conflicts
aim to dismantle the existing abstract space and to realize another space.”
The aging process is a continuous biological process of survival and prosperity that
begins at birth and lasts until death, through childhood, adulthood, and inevitably old
age. Aging is the physiological changes that occur gradually over time and result in
senescence or a loss in biological processes and the organism's capacity to respond to
metabolic stress. (sooden, 1975) due to better medical treatment and family planning
initiatives that have both reduced fertility and raised life expectancy, there are
substantial demographic shifts in the number of older people throughout the world. In
a few decades, half of the world's population is expected to be over 50, while the elderly
population in developing nations is expected to grow by a factor of four. This change
will provide numerous new difficulties for nepal because aging is accompanied by a
loss of physical and mental capabilities brought on by medical problems.
Modernization has boosted the availability of transnational labor and accelerated
migration to metropolitan areas, which affects family dynamics in favor of the nuclear
family structure and creates an uncertain allocation of caregiving duties among the
family, the individual, the government, and the community. Since these responsibilities
cover social, medical, and financial demands, one party can’t carry the full load; this
highlights the significance of a network support structure that adequately handles these
overlapping responsibilities.
The population pyramid with a broad base and a tapering end that has traditionally been
used to represent the distribution of a population's age groups is set to take on the
appearance of an onion. It is also known as a constrictive or stationary pyramid, and it
represents an aging population with a high life expectancy but low fertility and death.
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A look back at how architecture was designed to accommodate an aging society is
provided in the second subheading. A typology of spatial prototypes may be traced
from the year 1571 to the present using successive social laws, suggesting that
architects were involved in developing the aging society. (andersson, 2011)
The elderly is an integral part of the population of any country who owe respect and
attention equally to any other section. However, due to changing family structure and
modernization, elderly population is facing inevitable challenges to live their life
respectfully. Since the aging process is accompanied by the loss of physical and mental
abilities due to health-related issues, this shift will create many new challenges for
nepal.
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take into account all these determinants. Care for the elderly is fast emerging
as a critical element of both the public and private concern. (mane, 2016)
▪ Further, the prevailing old age homes in nepal are not designed considering
the architectural guidelines with the exception of few. Hence, with the
increase in elderly population and lack of proper built environment for them
it is necessary to have specialized environment solely designed for them and
that caters for their needs.
Having been grown up under the love and compassion of grandparents, i have
developed an affinity towards elderly people over the time. Few years down the line, i
see myself actively working for the betterment of elderly community. This thesis is a
medium to explore my inclinations towards them and to polish my knowledge and
understanding of their special needs.
1.4. OBJECTIVES
"It's not how old you are. It's how you are old." - jules renard
The main motive of this project is to develop comprehensive guidelines for the designs
that enhance the sensory experience of the elder who are sick, abandoned by their
family and homeless. Namely the objectives are:
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• To provide companionship, emotional support, therapeutic occupation,
recreation facilities and activities to overcome social isolation and also to age
in place.
• To create a definite program of action formulated to utilize their talents, energies
and experience.
Therefore, beyond broad spatial changes to satisfy the requirement for an accessible
and useful built environment, aging and age-related difficulties have an unclear
function in the profession of architecture. This prompts the profession of architects to
take a serious approach to evaluating the built environment for diverse human goals in
terms of excellent and bad architectural quality.
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1.6. TARGET GROUP
ELDERLY WANTING TO
LIVE INDEPENDENT LIFE
1.7. METHODOLOGY
A successful execution of any research follows certain methodologies that becomes the
backbone of the whole project. Hence, review of basic prerequisites is mandatory.
Following research methods will be pursued out of which required facts, data, codes of
conduct and standards will be gathered, analyzed and employed in designing a better
space.
I. RESEARCH PHASE
a) Literature review
b) Case study
Reading, analyzing, and categorizing literature are all parts of the literature research
approach used to determine the key characteristics of materials. (lin, 2009)no matter
the discipline, the foundation of all academic research efforts is drawing on and
connecting to existing knowledge. Therefore, accuracy in doing so ought to be a top
priority for all academics. However, the difficulty of this endeavor has risen. The rate
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of knowledge production in the field of business research is increasing dramatically,
yet it is still fragmented and interdisciplinary. This makes it challenging to stay on top
of cutting-edge research, to be at the forefront, and to evaluate the body of evidence in
a given field of study. A broad definition of a literature review is a more or less
methodical method of compiling and summarizing prior research. (snyder, 2019)
Providing an overview of the many transdisciplinary research topics can also be helpful.
Additionally, a literature review is a great approach to summarize study results to
demonstrate evidence on a meta-level and identify areas in which additional research is
required, which is an essential step in developing theoretical frameworks and
conceptual models. (snyder, 2019)
Several actions must be completed and choices must be made to produce a review that
satisfies the requirements, regardless of the method chosen to conduct the literature
review. The integral stages and crucial decisions involved in doing a literature review
will be recommended and explored in the following utilizing four phases:
This method was created from practical experience and is a synthesis of and influenced
by numerous standards and guidelines recommended for literature reviews. (snyder,
2019)
Through summaries of prior studies, case study research enables the examination and
comprehension of difficult subjects. It can be regarded as a reliable research technique,
especially when a comprehensive, in-depth inquiry is needed. The case study approach
is used in many social science studies but becomes increasingly important when
questions about sociology, education, and community-based concerns like poverty,
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unemployment, drug abuse, illiteracy, etc. Are raised. (zainal, 2007)a researcher can go
beyond the quantitative statistical findings and comprehend the behavioral conditions
from the actor's point of view by using case study approaches. Through meticulous
observation, reconstruction, and analysis of the cases under research, case studies assist
explain both the process and outcome of a phenomenon by using both quantitative and
qualitative data. (tellis, 1997)
An in-depth analysis of the data within a particular context is made possible by the case
study method. The majority of the time, a case study method chooses a small
geographic area or a relatively small group of people to study. In their purest form, case
studies study and examine contemporary real-life phenomena by carefully examining
the background of a small number of circumstances or occurrences and how they relate
to one another. (zainal, 2007)yin (1984:23) defines the case study research method “as
an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary phenomenon within its real-life
context; when the boundaries between phenomenon and context are not evident; and in
which multiple sources of evidence are used.”
• Site analysis
• Program formulation
• Planning
• Conceptual design development
• Zoning
• Preparation of drawings
• Architectural plans/ elevations/ sections
• Perspectives, 3ds and models
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1.8. KEY CONCEPTS
In analyzing a specific feature of the aging process, the interaction between the elderly
and the built environment, or other phenomena largely related to the architectural
profession, some themes will be repeated in this report in a random sequence. The
understanding and application of these major principles in this study are summarized
in the list that follows.
I. AGING: this refers to two facets of human aging, either to the psychological
expansion of the mind due to the accumulation of new experiences and
knowledge on the one hand and on another hand to the physical aging process
of the human body. Due to aging, the body's physiology and composition alter
during this process. Aging frequently affects one's independence in movement,
reaching, thinking, hearing, vision, and dexterity first. (andersson, 2011)
VI. FRAIL SENIOR PEOPLE: this is used to describe older people who have had
one or more medical diagnoses as a result of age-related issues. The range of
medical issues is different for older persons than for younger people. At least
two diagnoses point to a long-term condition (ltc) that includes cognitive
decline, dementia of any sort, a noticeable functional impairment that calls for
assistive technology, or any other respiratory or malignant deterioration. The
word "comorbidity" refers to this medical condition. In each scenario, the
disease causes the older person's capacity to carry out adls to gradually
deteriorate. The elderly person's ongoing survival depends on the care and
attention provided by family carers or an eldercare agency. Ages 65 and older
make up this group. (andersson, 2011)
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VII. HOME CARE SERVICE: an individual without a medical license provides
this type of custodial care. They work for a commercial business or the
government and are experienced in domestic and social care. They offer this
kind of service to senior citizens with minor, temporary disabilities. The word
"caregivers" is used to describe those who offer home care services as well as
relatives and friends. During convalescence or the latter phases of life, medical
care may occasionally be offered in the patient's home. Then, doctor, nurse, or
other licensed medical personnel working for the local primary health care
service provides this kind of in-home treatment. (andersson, 2011)
VIII. INCLUSIVE DESIGN: this is the process of applying thought to the design of
an architectural space or any other object intended for use or display. The
ultimate goal of this approach is to create constructed environments, items, or
goods that anybody can utilize, regardless of age, gender, ethnic origin, or any
cognitive or functional impairments. It is a barrier-free design that facilitates
widespread access to physical environments, infrastructure, information and
communication technologies, and social involvement. (andersson, 2011)
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LITERATURE REVIEW
1.9. HISTORY
In 2017, there were 962 million people in the globe who were 60 years of age or older,
more than double the 382 million people in this age group in 1980. By 2050, when it is
anticipated to reach about 2.1 billion, the population of elderly people will have more
than doubled once again. Compared to industrialized nations, elderly people are
populating the developing world at a considerably higher rate. As a result, a significant
portion of the world's elderly population lives in emerging nations. Those 60 or older
made up 56% of the population in developing regions in 1980. The developing world
was home to more than two-thirds of the globe's elder population in 2017. The number
of people aged 60 or over is projected to more than double in developing regions
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between 2017 and 2050, rising from 652 million to 1.7 billion, while it is predicted that
older people will increase by 38% in more developed regions between 2017 and 2050,
rising from 310 million to 427 million. According to projections, 79% of people in the
globe over the age of 60 would live in developing countries by 2050. (nations, 2017)
II.AGING IN NEPAL
In nepal, those above 60 are regarded as elderly. 1.5 million senior people were living
in nepal as per the 2001 census, or 6.5 percent of the overall population. The annual
growth rate of the old population was 3.39 percent between 1991 and 2001, which was
greater than the yearly population growth rate of 2.3 percent. Nepal is seeking to
implement population control programs despite the country's rapid population
expansion. These initiatives have reduced the birth rate, which will lead to an increase
in the number of old people. Unfortunately, there aren't many actions being taken to
address aging-related problems globally. The older population of the country is
increasing both in terms of absolute number and as a proportion of the total population.
It is accounted that 2.1 million elderly inhabitants constitute 8.1 percent of the total
population in 2011, which increased from 5.8 percent in 1991. The total population
growth rate decreased from 2.25 percent to 1.35 percent in census 2001 and 2011 while
the elderly population growth rate increased from 3.40 percent to 4.4 percent in census
2001 and 2011. Figure 4 and figure 5 illustrate the age and sex structure of a country's
population according to the census in 1991 and 2011 and may provide insights into the
social structure. While figure 6 and figure 7 show the population projection for 2021
and 2031. (hn, 2006)
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Table 1 ageing population reported in different censuses of nepal 1991-2011
Source: (central bureau of
AGE IN 1991 2001 2011
YEARS TO MA FEMALE TO MALE FEMAL TOTAL MAL FEMALE
TA LE TA E E
L L
60-64 316 21547 216166 520 262255 258653 756827 36845 388376
45 9 908 1
65-69 270 14170 128765 387 196053 191170 554449 27778 276667
472 7 223 2
70-74 183 9423 89722 273 141678 132111 395153 19961 195543
952 0 789 0
75-79 819 4198 40018 165 82335 83429 235135 11735 117777
99 1 764 8
80-84 588 2792 30882 842 41192 43063 128777 62787 65990
09 7 55
85-89 207 1011 10609 279 13630 14317 52526 25810 26716
25 6 47
90+ 181 7932 10256 174 7697 9796 31543 13141 18402
88 93
TOTAL 665 53937 526418 1477 744840 732539 2154410 10649 1089471
790 2 379 39
Statistics, 2017)
2019 2050
Population aged 60 and above (total) 2,521,000 6,568,000
Population aged 60 and above (% of the total population) 8.7 18.6
Older women aged 60+ (% of the total population) 4.69 11.14
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Life expectancy (males) 68.83 75.45
Life expectancy (females) 71.72 78.98
Old-age dependency ratio (age 65+ / age 15-64) 8.9 18.1
Rural older people (% of the total population) 4.47
Urban older people (% of the total population) 0.83
Older persons living alone aged 60 and above (% of the 3.9
total population aged 60+)
The physiological and functional states that an elderly person experience is incredibly
diverse. All individuals above the age of 60 are frequently categorized as old and
grouped. However, a 90-year-perspective old's life is very different from that of a 60-
year-old. Three life-stage subgroups of older adults may be identified: the young-old
(about 60–74), the middle-old (ages 75–84), and the old-old (above 85). Young adults
nowadays are usually happier, healthier, and in better financial shape than young adults
in past generations. Because resources are more broadly accessible than in earlier
generations, these young-old age groups are better equipped to plan for aging.
Additionally, a lot of individuals are proactively planning for their quality of life in old
age while they are still young. When an elderly person experienced a health crisis in
the past, family members would decide how to handle the situation, frequently giving
the elderly person little control. Nowadays, senior citizens have a choice of care
facilities, giving them some independence while also offering assistance when required.
Other issues that are more frequently handled beforehand include living wills,
retirement planning, and medical powers of attorney. The physical and mental abilities
of some 80-year-olds will be comparable to those of many 20-year-olds. A large
number of other people will start to lose a lot of their capacity considerably earlier in
life. To do simple tasks, some 60 or 70-year-olds will need assistance from others. Some
individuals have a stereotypical perception of elderly people as a homogenous "group
of 'deserving poor' unable to work" or even as a "more negative image of 'greedy
geezers' who are reluctant to work." these misconceptions are incorrect since older age
experiences and health conditions vary greatly. Many people continue to grow
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personally as they age, while some people stop. Some people are in good health, while
some people lose a lot of ability and need a lot of care. (shrestha, 2021)
Following the first and second world assembly on aging, which was held in vienna,
austria, and madrid, spain, respectively, in 1982 and 2002, nepal created several law
measures to address the many issues facing the aging population (poudel & magar,
2019). Senior citizen nepal is also committed to the madrid international plan of action
on aging, 2002, and the macau plan of action of aging for asia and the pacific, 1999, to
protect the social security of senior citizens. By these objectives, the nepali government
has created and implemented specific laws, policies, and guidelines just for senior
citizens. (bhandari, 2019)
I. NATIONAL PLANS
Elders are among the social categories that are protected under the local self
governance act of 1998's provisions. The ministry of local development's regulations
states that:(a) people over the age of 60 who are unemployed, have no family support,
no personal assets, or are widows who do not receive their husband's pension are
eligible for a monthly allowance of rs. 150; and (b) people over the age of 75 who are
eligible for a monthly allowance of rs. 200. Nevertheless, due to cumbersome
processes, 26% of older adults who are eligible are denied access to these social security
programs. Government employees such as teachers, police officers, and civil workers
are all eligible for pensions, and the official retirement age for public servants is
presently 58 years old. (nations, 2017)
The senior citizen policy of 2002, which addressed the institutional framework,
designated all 75 women's development offices as centers of expertise on aging
concerns. In addition to government institutions, there are 50 distinct non-governmental
organizations (ngos) that are actively concerned with issues relevant to older people
that manage around 50 daycare centers, 20 old age homes, and more than 100 elderly
clubs. (nations, 2017)
The government created a national plan of action for senior citizens in 2005 in
response to the passage of the madrid international plan of action on aging. The plan
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covers legal matters together with concerns of social security, nutrition, health, and
participation. In collaboration with ngos, ministries and authorities are to carry out the
strategy in an effective manner. Identification cards are being distributed to elderly
people in conjunction with the national action plan. A high-level senior citizen
coordination committee was created to do policy and advisory work. In each of the five
development regions, the committee proposes and directs initiatives to enhance senior
citizens' quality of life. (nations, 2017)
Parliament also passed the applied senior rule in 2008 and the applied senior citizen
act in 2006. "each entity offering health services shall provide health care by giving
precedence to older persons," the applied senior citizen act states. The act also
established a senior citizen fund and organized national and local district senior citizen
welfare committees. (nations, 2017)
The three-year plan approach paper (2010/11-2012/13) has adopted the following
strategy for older persons:
(a) make policy and institutional provisions to utilize the knowledge, skills, and
experience of senior citizens;
(b) expand access of older persons to economic and social security programs;
(c) promote and expand economic and social security programs by enhancing
coordination among government, non-government, private cooperative, and
community sectors as well as local government bodies;
(d) launch special programs targeting senior citizens who are abandoned, victims of
violence, and those with some degree of disability and vulnerability. (nations, 2017)
A rural community public health program was to be established as part of the thirteenth
plan to address the concerns of healthy aging and the threat of non-communicable
illnesses. To national community care for the aged, the strategy also placed a priority
on enhancing treatment services for the elderly and adopting prevention for non-
communicable illnesses in primary health services. The thirteenth plan sought to
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guarantee that all residents had simple access to the resources available to them, and
primary health care provided by the government is now free in rural regions.
Senior citizens clubs in nepal are kept under observation by the centre for welfare of
senior citizens to foster dependence and moral character while also encouraging their
engagement in their communities.
In nepal, there is a social pension program in existence for elderly persons with modest
incomes. A pension provides security for the elderly. Pensions provide a secure income
for the rest of one's life after retirement. Pensions are provided by the nepalese
government for government employees. Civil employees, military people, police
officials, and teachers are all eligible. For public officials, the retirement age is
presently 58. However, at universities, the retirement age for instructors and
administrators is 63, whereas it is 46 to 48 for lower ranks of military and police
officials. Although the age of eligibility is lowered to 60 for dalits and people living in
the karnali zone, the old age allowance is offered to individuals above 70. Among those
who are qualified and older than 70, 79.9% of the population receives the old age
allowance, which pays 2,000 rupees per month.
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Rastriya banijya bank Jul – 03 630
Corporation Nepal electricity Jul – 03 1,332
Nepal telecom Jul – 03 558
While doing research, it was discovered that multiple phrases were being used to
describe persons who lived in oahs; these semantics contain varied viewpoints on the
homes themselves. The majority of people refer to these people as residents, especially
the management of the houses, which wants to be seen as a formal enterprise where
residents are a member of a community. To foster a sense of family among the inmates
and employees, some homes even employed the nepali words for mother (tamara) and
father (baa). People who live in "barrack-like" dwellings are referred to as inmates by
one group. When a person who is very sensitive to the semantics of aging makes a
comparison to jail, it draws attention to the perceived unfavorable social climate in
nepal's old-age homes. (sanner, 2013)
An old age home is a shelter where elderly individuals who have been abandoned by
their family members or who voluntarily enter it to combat loneliness during this pivotal
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stage of life live together with other older people. The staff of the old-age home is
responsible for providing these older folks with timely meals and attending to their
medical requirements. By cleaning their belongings and kitchenware, they assist them
in adjusting to the routine and enable them to spend their final days in the company.
Additionally, they engage in a variety of leisure activities to diversify their lives and
prevent monotony. Additionally, the residents of the house remain together, share their
experiences, and develop strong friendships.
Children's misbehavior and financial hardship can cause older people to feel ignorant
and without emotional support, which frequently forces them to choose other locations
where they may live without problems. And in the current environment, oahs is being
thought of as a superior option to living, in addition to other factors. The government
and nonprofit organizations in nepal must set up institutional support and care for the
elderly, and these homes must create emotional support services.
For some, old age is a highly diversified time of life; they are in good health and enjoy
an active and lively lifestyle. Others find it more difficult owing to health ailments or
physical limitations. Whatever the case, as we age, the demands of our living conditions
might alter, which is why there are several forms of senior and geriatric care to assist
in making the appropriate option. The most frequent forms of elderly care are: -
Individuals and couples who can care for themselves and desire to live in a
neighborhood with others their age can move into an independent living community. It
is a small step from house ownership and provides a sense of community and
togetherness that might benefit older people who struggle with loneliness.
The next stage is assisted living, which can include a range of services. People who
want the confidence that someone is there or some backup in case they run into issues
should use it. It might be a solitary senior living facility with a small number of
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inhabitants or a sizable apartment complex with nearby healthcare and entertainment
amenities.
They can provide basic senior care, short-term respite care, and specialized care for
those with specific requirements, such as:
• Dementia care;
• Mental health condition care;
• Physical disability care;
• Sensory impairment care.
The elderly person receives this sort of care when a member of their family, a close
friend, or a professional caregiver spends the day with them in their home, supporting
them. As long as therapy can be administered successfully at home, this may be done
with a variety of people who occasionally have difficult medical conditions. It
frequently represents the priciest form of treatment.
When someone needs temporary daycare, they usually attend a residential care facility
during the day while a caregiver is at work or stay there for a little length of time (known
as respite care). It is also a wonderful method to receive specialized treatment following
surgery or a period of illness.
Because it uses a variety of care alternatives to best satisfy the demands of the time,
this is more of a care plan than a singular choice. For instance, it could entail using
independent living facilities, outpatient daycare, and short stints in a full-time care
facility.
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Palliative care is specialized medical attention for those with significant chronic
diseases, incurable ailments, or terminal illnesses. It assists with managing pain and
other problems that persons with the most severe disorders face. A hospice is a sort of
palliative care facility where patients are housed as they approach the end of their life
to and support them during this difficult period.
According to documents and other data, nepal's old age homes were first established
and developed around 1938 b.s. however, it was fou030 b.s. the first conference on the
aged held in vienna did not have an impact on nepal, but when the un proclaimed 1999
ad as the international year of elders, nepal's ngos and civil society began to exhibit
interest in this field. Care centers and day service centers were allowed to be established
by the senior citizen act of 2065. Only 230 senior citizens can be accommodated in the
old age home, which is run by the ministry of women, children, and social welfare. The
government alone operates this one facility for senior citizens, which opened as the first
residential facility in 1976. Established in 1976 as the first residential home for the
elderly, this is the sole senior home maintained by the government. Around 1,500 senior
citizens reside in the roughly 70 recognized groups around nepal. Since then, this
number has been increasing. The following is a list of some of the senior living facilities
in the kathmandu valley.
The first senior residence built by the nepalese government was named pashupati
briddhasram. From this comment, it appears that old-age homes have a fairly recent
history. However, the last resting sites (pati, pauwa, and sattal) originated from nepal's
old people's dwellings. Age restrictions at almshouses (houses established by charitable
organizations for the needy) were said to have begun in the 20th century (fate). The
pashupati briddhasram was established in 1938, marking the formal beginning of old
age in nepal (pashupati briddhasram- social welfare center briddhasram, 2013) during
the middle to end of the 19th century, during the reign of king surendra bir bikram shah,
this old-age residence for the elderly was constructed as the panchdeval (five shrines)
pakshala.
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Both
1 Social welfare center Kathmandu 230
sex/free
briddhaashram
Women
2 Matatirtha briddhashram Kathmandu 20
Only/free
Women
3 Divine service home Kathmandu 20
Only/free
Women
4 Tapasthali briddhashram Kathmandu 12
Only/free
5 Nisahaya sewa sadan Shantinagar 37 Both sex/paid
6 Siddhi shaligram briddhashram Bhaktapur 30 Both sex/paid
7 Bouddha briddhashram Kavrepalanchow 10 Both sex/paid
k
8 Naman care center Kathmandu 30 Both sex/paid
9 Abenteurland senior citizen Godawari 32 Both sex/paid
home
10 Panchawoti home Bhaktapur 26 Both sex/paid
11 Nrn briddhashram Devghat 58 Both sex/paid
An elderly home's planning and design should be centered on current demands as well
as be able to accommodate any future residents' existing needs. Both the constructed
environment and the natural environment have an impact on behavior, interpersonal
interactions, and psychological states. Therefore, while designing for the older
population, the solution should aim to fully meet their behavioral demands rather than
only focusing on practical difficulties like universal designs.
I. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Even in our contemporary urban culture, maintaining one's physical and mental well-
being remains heavily dependent on interaction with the natural world. This contact is
a requirement rather than a luxury for leading healthy and fulfilling lives. It has been
demonstrated that exposure to nature enhances cognitive abilities including focus and
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
memory. The attention restoration theory, as presented by rachel and stephen kaplan,
relates an increase in focus and attention span to contact with nature, both passively
observing it and actively participating in it. This is crucial for seniors who are coping
with memory loss as they age since it demonstrates that exposure to nature may be able
to enhance memory or at the very least, lessen aspects that may contribute to memory
impairment. According to several studies, views of the outdoors from inside a building's
circulation may help people find their way around and navigate space more efficiently.
An old idea that has been around for more than a thousand years is that of nature's
therapeutic benefits. The greeks were one specific civilization that utilized nature as a
therapeutic factor. The greeks had one of the first networks of healing locations called
epidaurus where they utilized water from a natural spring in cleaning rites and other
healing ceremonies. Monasteries were among the earliest places where gardens were
utilized as therapeutic spaces. Large trees on the monastery grounds provided shade for
the pathways and provided visual stimulation for the patients within the building.
According to clare cooper marcus, three sorts of healing occur by being exposed to
nature. First, there is "relief from bodily symptoms," or at the very least, "relief from
the consciousness of those symptoms." stress reduction represents the second form of
healing. An increase in general well-being would be the third sort of healing. There is
growing evidence that being active and outside is vital as people age, thus older people
should be encouraged to participate in nature-related activities while designing and
planning the outdoor environment. (shrestha, 2021)
The idea of a constructed environment refers to the material, spatial, and cultural
byproducts of human effort that integrate energy and physical materials into forms for
habitation, employment, and recreation. The human-made place in which people
regularly live, work, and have fun is referred to as the built environment. Designing a
constructed environment that can assist mitigate some of the biggest issues for
individuals as they age requires an understanding of how our environment affects us
both physically and psychologically. To comprehend how the physical environment
affects the users, it is necessary to investigate both human behavior and the situations
in which humans reside. Regardless matter whether it is a group or individual behavior,
it can only be understood in the context of the environment in which it takes place.
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
Given that we spend much of our time in constructed environments, the link between
people and places is important. Within the constructed environment, we study, work,
play, and live. We spend a lot of time surrounded by man-made structures even while
we are outside. Despite being built using natural materials, parks and gardens are
nevertheless planned and cultivated by the people who built them and utilize them every
day. The effectiveness of a retirement facility is influenced by the planning of the built
environment, but it also affects how older people who are not suffering from serious
illnesses may effectively age in place and traverse their separate living communities.
When it comes to amenities, accessibility, and welcoming surroundings, seniors and
non-seniors have distinct perspectives on the physical environment around them. It's
important to realize that when thinking about seniors, it's not only about whether those
services and facilities are available in a community; it's also about whether the elders
can use them. An individual must be able to continue doing routine activities in their
community in addition to being able to carry out daily tasks at home to age effectively
and productively. (shrestha, 2021)
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Seniors cannot be left alone very often since they will grow dependent and need care
and attention for their welfare. Older people who find it difficult to live alone or with
their children or, occasionally, when they are penniless, can live in an old age home.
The unavoidable process of aging means that family members may not always be
available to provide the necessary care and love.
Many times, elderly folks who need care from another person are placed in nursing
facilities. A complex featuring accommodation options for older persons is known as
an old age home. Although it is intended to create a home for the elderly, old age homes
frequently resemble hospital facilities due to inadequate infrastructure or a lack of
funding.
The following are some factors to take into account while building senior housing:
I. USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
Narrow entrances and staircases, which make wheelchair accessibility challenges, are
some prevalent issues with some of the existing old-age home designs. When facilities
are hard to reach or improperly placed, and staircases are small and steep. These
potential design flaws frequently fail to consider the demands of senior citizens or
individuals with impairments.
Landscapes tend to calm and relax people. One of the most popular pastimes for seniors
is taking a stroll around a park or garden. Additionally, it keeps children busy and
healthy. Slow exercises are beneficial for improving both physical and mental health,
and performing them with other residents would make the activities more enjoyable.
The majority of the time, elderly people feel cooped up in their homes. Therefore,
including landscape design in the construction of old age homes would be a crucial
element that would significantly alter the atmosphere for the elderly. It has been
demonstrated that being near nature helps patients heal. The use of organic landscape
components will improve their mood and give them reviving energy.
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III. ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION SPACE
Old age gives individuals the impression that they have a lot of free time. Among
seniors, passing the time appears to be a fairly common problem. They seldom lose
their focus due to weariness brought on by boredom. One method of passing the time
is through hobbies. Making time for rediscovered interests like reading, watching
movies, or knitting will enrich their daily routine.
Games are played with and among the older persons to provide amusement and
relaxation. An approach used in old age homes for recreational purposes is to schedule
a shared activity each week. The essential demand for this cause to be able to function
would be a sizable gathering location accessible conveniently from their dwellings
when this is taken into account in the design. The demands of the people must be taken
into consideration while designing multipurpose confined or semi-open areas.
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IV. SAFETY
Figure 12 Safety
A few typical old age issues include memory loss, eyesight loss, and limb weakness.
Regardless of the problem, elderly individuals tend to grow weak and more prone to
danger. They have a propensity to wander off when left alone. They frequently trip or
slip due to negligent design and infrastructure, which may not be a big deal for young
people but may be more perilous for elderly individuals who recover more slowly.
Therefore, building areas with good viewing ranges will make it simple to see people
across rooms or hallways. To decrease confusion, it is necessary to avoid blind spots
and negative gaps. In case the elderly become lost, there have to be clear signs at
gathering places and communal spaces like gardens. Since older individuals sometimes
have weaker limbs and find it difficult to climb up, levels and stairs are not advised as
a design rule.
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V. HEALTH
As people become older, it's harder to predict when and what sort of health problem
may occur. The need for medical support increases as people age. Emergent medical
conditions necessitate prompt attention and treatment. The old age home must have the
very minimum in terms of medical facilities and gear, if not a hospital.
There must be simple access and enough beds for treatment. In case of crisis equipment
and medication must be transportable to the patient's home. For the architecture of
healthcare facilities in old age homes, large lobbies, interconnected blocks, and ease of
mobility across transition areas become essential.
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VI. LIGHTING
Another significant design element that has to be included in senior housing is good
lighting. To have freedom of movement and clear vision, sufficient lighting must be
given, and the areas must be brightly illuminated. For example, table tops, cupboards,
the tops of switches, and other nooks and corners frequently have lighting.
Warm colors and nothing visually startling should be used for the lighting. During the
evening, lighting fixtures on lawns are crucial. Glowing must be prevented, and all
places must have adequate lighting with no dark spots.
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VII. PERSONAL SPACE
Figure 15 Bedroom
They must be given personal space even when they share a home with numerous other
older folks who are strangers. They must believe that the nursing home may be their
home, where they are free to do as they like. They can be given private rooms as a
design solution so they can perform different tasks on their own, rather than in groups.
For individuals to relate to each place uniquely and feel like it's their own, a design
must attempt to engage the audience on a subjective level.
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
Old age homes are notoriously difficult to design since the occupants' mindsets are
frequently fluid and need new insights. An old age hold-aging must strive to create a
space to inspire hope and vitality rather than merely serve as a refuge for the elderly,
who are frequently left by their relatives.
It is necessary to make some minor adjustments to the public design's natural dynamics
to conform to the specifications of the old age hold-aging to provide a place for older
persons to lead a happier and healthier lifestyle, simplicity, and dignity in the design of
the places must be observed.
When planning and designing for the older population, the plans for senior housing
should be focused upon future needs, as well as the existing requirements of the
prospective residents ofthe dwelling. The living area is likely to become the focus of
the dwelling unit for many residences. The size of the space however is often not as
important as good planning which effectively accommodates the living activity while
also accounting for circulation, doors, windows, and furniture. This does not mean
however that small apace is desirable the living area should be of sufficient size as to
allow some excess in floor area for such temporary activities as exercise ironing in front
of the television set, etc. Provision of floor area beyond the minimum space required
by the furnish ability test will also e nsure the accommodation of a wider range of
lifestyles and activity patterns.
The living activities area may be greatly enhanced in spatial character by a higher-than-
normalceiling if the building type permits. As a general rule, it has been found that a
width of fewer than 12 feet is difficult to utilize effectively. It also has been found that
rectangular rat her than square space is easier to furnish and to zone f or different
activities. Consideration should be given in dwelling units of larger than standard size to
subdividing the li vi ng activities area into two separate areas such as a living room and
sewing room combination. This can also be accommodated by room configurations as
shapes that are easily subdivided by furniture arrangement. This approach is
particularly effective where there are two residents and a unit who wish to carry on
different activities simultaneously. Senior housing is a place where the elderly resides.
Since the building character is purely residential, the effective zoning of the site is a
must in this kind of project. Both private and public spaces should be properly defined.
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In very general terms the criteria for planning housing accommodations for the aged
are:
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
I. UNIVERSAL DESIGN
The term ‘universal design’ was coined by the late ronald l. Mace, from the college of
design, north carolina state university, usa. In 1988 he defined the term in the following
way: “universal design is an approach to design that incorporates products as well as
building features which, to the greatest extent possible, can be used by everyone.
Universal design is a simple concept, but one that requires a fundamental shift in
thinking. Traditionally, the designhas catered to averages, creating a world in which
few people can thrive. The universal designstrives to encompass the widest possible
ranges of size, strength, and capability, doing so without the need for adaptation or
specialized design. The universal design intends to simplifylife for everyone by making
products, communications, and the built environment usable by as many people as
possible.”
Universal design is an approach to architectural design that considers the entire range
of capacities and potentials of people and how they use buildings and products
throughout their lives. The approach goes beyond technical standards that provide only
minimal accessibility incompliance with regulations and extends design to increase the
capacities of men, women, andchildren of all ages and abilities.
1.1.1.10 LOCATION
When determining a solution that addresses the housing needs of the elderly, the
locations they reside and routinely visit are paramount. The housing should be
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
integrated with the peaceful and residential neighborhood. It should ideally be located
in an area that is safe, attractive, and provide access to the community amenities
including transit, shopping, services, parks, and recreation and activities. The
environment should include sidewalks that are wide enough and in good condition
crosswalks that are separated from the vehicular flow and a flat or minimal slope. The
housing in the surrounding environments should have a similar density to that of the
elderly residents. This will be a means of avoiding visual isolation. When the housing
typologythe elderly reside in is high density and surrounding housing is low density, it
may be suitableto locate the elderly close to facilities such as schools and crèches that
have high occupancy levels. The aged members of society are not expected to be
withdrawn from the community and live-in desolate isolation. On the contrary, they
are part and parcel of the community just as the younger generations are and where
possible they are also expected to be woven into thefabric of society (mumford, 1956).
The deterioration of their sensory and physical capabilitiesand their general decrease in
participation in the social sphere should be addressed by encouraging community
interactions to occur as conveniently and naturally as possible.
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VI. Consideration should be given to possible changes in the overall land use
pattern, in terms of probable trends and projected plans.
1.1.1.11 PARKING
The housing for the elderly has usually small parking requirements because few elderly
residents own and operate vehicles. Accordingly, the following is a set of informal
standards, based upon limited surveys and parking provision for public and private
housing for the elderly.
For housing not subject to the following exceptions, parking spaces numbering more
than 30 percent, of the total number of dwelling units to be provided. Where service by
public transportation is very poor, parking spaces numbering more than 30 percent, but
less than 50 percent, of the total number of dwelling units should be provided. For
housing located in or easily accessible to the central city or adjacent to regional
shopping centers, parking spaces numbering at least 15 percent of the total number of
dwelling units should be provided.
For the housing intended for moderate to low-income occupants (other than public
housing) parking spaces numbering at least 15 percent of the total number of dwelling
units should be provided. For public housing for the elderly, parking spaces numbering
at least 10 percent of the total number of dwelling units should be provided.
The minimum width of an accessible parking space is 3.6m. An access aisle 1.2m wide
can belocated between two ordinary parking spaces.
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1.1.1.12 ENTRY/EXIT
The entry/exit (or front door) is the critical transfer point from the least public area of
the development to the least private area of the dwelling unit. If properly designed, it
will ensure the privacy of unit activities and contribute strongly to the sense of home.
It must be a place, not just a door in a wall that opens directly into the living area or
other such space.
• Food preparation
• Living area, with spatial differentiation between the two functions
• Storage/utility
• Dining
• Private outdoor (optional)
• Personal hygiene
• Sleeping/dressing
The entry/exit area should have both visual and audio contact with visitors outside of
the entry door, but visitors should not have visual contact and only controlled audio
contact into the entryarea of the dwelling unit. This maximizes the ability of the resident
to keep out unwanted visitors and allows the resident to control the space just outside
the unit. All of the previously mentioned spaces with direct physical access to the
entry/exit area should have visual/audio contact with this area for control and security
within the unit. Other areas should have audio but no visual contact to minimize
disruption of privacy.
ORIENTATION: the orientation of this activity toward view and sunlight is governed
by more essential concerns related to building type and the functional organization of
other activities.
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FURNISH-ABILITY: the furnishings and equipment necessary for this area are:
storage for outerwear, that is, coats, galoshes, umbrellas, etc.; a closet at least 3'-0" by
2'-2" should be provided. A place to sit while putting on outerwear
Each dwelling unit shall have an area or areas which are organized and furnishable for
a widerange of activities such as:
• Conversation
• Entertaining
• Reading
• Television viewing
• Radio/record listening
• Contemplation
• Lounging
In most units, more than one of these activities will be provided for in a single space. In
largerthan standard units or in two-bedroom units, however, it may be desirable to
provide more specialized spaces.
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
ACCESSIBILITY: direct physical accessibility (no intervening spaces) should be
provided to:
• Entry/exit (planning can be too open; therefore, there should be a definite spatial
distinction between the living area and entry/exit)
• Private outdoor, for the extension of general living activities
• Dining, where these spaces are combined, accessibility should not impair either
activityindirect physical accessibility (minor intervening activity or circulation
path) should exist between:
• Food preparation
• Personal hygiene, for visitor use (this accessibility should not impair the privacy
of thesleeping/dressing areas)
• Storage/utility
• Sleeping/dressing
Visual and audio contact with equally active areas (entry/exit and private outdoor)
should be encouraged. Visual and audio contact to the food preparation area should be
either minimizedor controllable so that it can be minimized or maximized as desired by
the resident. The visual/audio relationship between the dining and living areas will vary
with the location of the dining area. Visual/audio contact to sleeping/dressing and
personal hygiene spaces should be minimized.
ORIENTATION: living spaces will be occupied many hours of theday and should,
therefore, be provided with interesting views out of the unit. Windows should be located
so that a seated person can see out. In first and second-floor units, windows should also
be carefully located to avoid loss of internal privacyfrom outside of the unit. On upper
floors, close views from oneunit to another should be avoided. Sunlight is important to
both physical and mental conditions and, therefore, planning should ensure that living
spaces will receive some sunlight during each sunny day (probably no less than 30
percent of the day). Northern orientations should be avoided.
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For two-bedroom units, one easy chair should be added as well as:
Because of the diversity of activities that may occur in this space or spaces, and because
provision must be made for a wide variety of lifestyles, special provisionsshould be
made in the design process to allow for manyalternate furniture types and arrangements.
The locationof doors, windows, and other openings should be carefully considered so
as not to unnecessarily limit furniture arrangement. A substantial amount of
uninterrupted wall length is required. It should be remembered that many elderly
residents will come fromsingle-family or larger rental housing and many of themcan be
expected to have much more furniture thandescribed above. The following specific
design criteria shall be used:
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1.1.1.14 BEDROOM
Elderly people seldom move out; therefore, the bedroom is where they will spend most
of the time in a day. The elderly makes greater use of the bedroom than any other ag
e group except babies. Older people are often hard to sleep, if theenvironment is not
good, it could disturb, or awakethem easily. So, the bedroom of the elderly shouldbe in
a quiet place. The environment must be quietand clean which is a benefit for them. Their
bedroom should be best in the south or at the east of the house in a closed place.
Elderly people's eyes are often blurred and their legs slow down, their activities are no
longer nimble, easy as the young, therefore the bedroom arrangement should adapt to
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GRUHAM: Living for The Elderly
the health statusand habits of the elderly. Due to their age, elderly people are weak.
Their health is not as goodas when they were young or middle-aged. As their health
waned through time, their bedroom should have sufficient sunlight and fresh air.
Enough sunlight and the period to have sunlight time long are good for the body for the
elderly, which is considered the best dose for them. The eastern or southern bedroom
would meet those requirements. The room should be ventilating and free from heat,
freeze so that they won't be affected by heat or freeze.
ACCESSIBILITY: this activity is one of the most private in the dwelling unit. In a
dwelling unit containing two residents, one resident must be able to carry on normal
living activities without serious loss of privacy to the other person in the bedroom.
Because of this basic need,direct physical accessibility should only exist between the
sleeping and dressing area and personal hygiene and personal clothing storage. In some
cases, provision for personal outdoor space may also be accepted under some
circumstances. Because of the privacy factor and the desire and desire to be able to
entertain guests without having to make the whole dwelling unit tidy, the sleeping
/dressing area should be isolated from the most visual and audio contact withother areas
in the dwelling unit. Like the living area, this area should have excellent views fromits
windows. Windows should be placed so that a person can easily see out while lying in
bed.This is space requires direct exposure to the use of at least 30 percent of the day.
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Twin beds should be possible even in the bedroom of a unit programmed for single-
person occupancy. Secondary bedrooms for single occupancy have circulation space
and accommodate furniture of the following sizes:
The location of doors, windows, and closets should be planned to allow for the best
placementof the bed and other furniture. The closet should be placed next to the door
into the bedroom because the use of available wall space is minimized in this way. For
reasonable access to and use of bedroom furniture and equipment the following
minimum clearances should be observed:
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1.1.1.15 KITCHEN
Because kitchens are potentially as dangerous as bathrooms, equal care should be given
to layout and design. In locating the kitchen in the plan, provide easy access to the
outside and direct access to the dining space, which could be a portion of the living
room. In some plans, space can be provided in the kitchens for dining. In these cases,
however, an additional 20 to 40 sq. Ft is necessary. Interior locations are acceptable if
mechanical ventilation is provided.
Shelves should be no higher than 68" from the floor. Clearance between facing
equipment andcounters should be a minimum of3 ft for one person. To permit two
people to work and pass each other, the between-counter clearance should be 4 1/2 ft.
Equipment should be electric for the greatest safety and should be arranged for
maximum efficiency.
Storage spaces should be arranged as nearly as possible so that the bulk of the regular-
use itemscan be stored between 27" and 63" from the floor. Ideally, stored items should
be visible as well as physically accessible. Kitchens for older people should not be in
compacted form, theydesire and need ample workspace. If the kitchen is too compact,
storage space is limited and much of it is either too high or too low to be reached
comfortably. Shelves should be no higherthan 68: from the floor, and no lower than 12".
Too little counter space leads to crowded work surfaces which in turn can create
hazardous working conditions.
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Clearance between facing equipment and counters should be a minimum of 3 ft. For one
person.To permit two people to work and pass each other the between counter clearance
should be 41/2 ft. Equipment should be electric for the greatest safety and should be
arranged for maximum efficiency. Heating elements should visibly glow when hot. In
placing the range consider allowing extra space for ease in making minor repairs and
cleaning. Providing adequate lighting overall work surface provide an exhaust fan to
assure adequate ventilation and to carry out cooking orders, select floors or floor
coverings that will not absorb grease and become slippery and provide a fire
extinguisher for grease and electric fires.
General storage: ample, lighted closets should be provided for clothes, linens, and
miscellaneous household items. Closets should either have sliding doors or be arranged
for theuse of such curtains or screens. Provision must be made for the general storage
of bulky itemssuch as trunks and furniture.
Food preparation: the physical characteristics of the aged hamper the normal
functions. Of food preparation, cooking, food and utensils storage, trash disposal,
dishwashing and drying, and eating. If appropriate physical design adaptation is not
made to the food preparation spaceand facilities, cooking and related activities will
become unpleasant, tedious, and possibly dangerous. The net effect will be the creation
of a psychological barrier, which deters the userfrom cooking and eating. This situation
is particularly unacceptable because dietary problemscan become acute for the aged.
Accessibility: the food preparation area should be directly accessible to the main entry
exit ofthe dwelling unit to facilitate the carrying of bundles. It should also be accessible
to the diningarea. If the dining area is outside of the kitchen or light meals should be
provided. This can bea small table, counter, or pull-out shelf about 24 by 24 inches set
at table height and useable from a wheelchair. The food preparation area should be
indirectly accessible to but visually screened from the living, sleeping, personal
hygiene, and private outdoor space of the dwellingunit. Of this access should be most
direct to the private outdoor space. In all cases, indirect access should be through easily
traversed intermediate spaces or corridors.
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Orientation: often food preparation areas are located at the rear of the dwelling units
but where possible, this should be avoided. The kitchen should be located on an outside
wall withan interesting view from a window and it should have morning sun lights
possible.
Furnish-ability and equipment: the necessary equipment for food preparation and
relatedactivities are:
• Ventilation, both mechanical and natural to eliminate heat and odors.Sinks and
associated workspace.
• Cooking unit and oven with associated loading and unloading counter space
storage consisting of wall and base cabinets.
• Storage consisting of wall and base cabinets and pantry. Dishwasher optional
but should be included where possible.
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a lor u shaped kitchen is preferable to the pullman or corridor type kitchen corridor type
is inconvenient for the elderly who with advancing age and motor/sensory tosses, find
it difficultto repeatedly turn from one counter to another as they work equipment should
be placed so thatthere is sufficient operating room between it and any adjacent corridor
cabinet. There should be no through circulation in the kitchen work area.
1.1.1.16 DINING
There must be a permanent dining place within each dwelling unit for the independent
elderly.Depending on the program, space may be eliminated from units, which are part
of formal congregate care programs. Allow 21" - 24" of table space for each person.
The minimum-sizetable, at which eight adults can sit comfortably, there on each side
and one at each end, is 40"x72". The minimum size for six adults with two on each side
and one at each end is 36"x60".A round table 40" in dia. Is minimum for four people and
the table to edge past a seated person.Serving requires 44" from table to wall; 32" is
needed for rising from a chair at the table.
ORIENTATION: the dining area should possibly have a view out of the dwelling unit
and shouldalso have morning sunlight. Where the orientation is western, it is important
to control the harsh effects of the setting sun.
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• Dining table with a minimum width of 3' 0" and 2' 0" of edge length for each
diner.
• Dining chairs of i '6"* 1' 6" sufficient for the number of diners should be
accommodated.
The size of the individual eating space on the table should be based on a frontage of 24
inchesand an area of approximately 2 square feet. Also, the table should be large
enough toaccommodate serving dishes.
Spatial characteristics: as noted above the dining activity space may be located
separately orcombined with living or food preparation spaces. Because of economic
considerations, a separate dining space seems unlikely but developments should offer
both arrangements to provide a variety and choice in responding to the differences
between formal or informal lifestyles of various tenants. The ceiling height of the dining
space in a dwelling unit may be raised or lowered for spatial effect; it should however
be no lower than 7' 6”. The dining table location should be permanent, requiring no
rearrangement of furniture at mealtimes, and this space should not infringe upon other
activities. It should be possible to see the outdoors from the dining table.
1.1.1.17 BATHROOM
The bathroom is the subject of much public and private research. Also, requirements
for the adoption of bathroom facilities for use by permanently disabled persons are
included. These requirements shall apply to at least 10% of the units in developments
of 100 units to more. Application to smaller projects will be determined individually
for each case. In general; bathrooms in developments for the elderly should be given
care in the design as this space can; of poorly conceived, cause both serious health
hazards and through its convenience, great frustration. The general lack of mobility
and slow reaction time of the elderly make itmandatory that hygiene spaces be
inherently safe from sharp edges and slippery floor surfacesand that they do not require
excessive bending, leaning, or twisting to catch out necessary activities.
In general bathrooms in developments for the elderly should be given great care in the
design as this space can if poorly conceived cause both serious health hazards and
through its inconvenience, great frustration. The general lack of mobility and slow
reaction time of the elderly make it mandatory that hygiene spaces be inherently safe
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from sharp edges and slippery floor surfaces and that they do not require excessive
bending, leaning, or twisting to carry outnecessary activities.
Accessibility: in addition to more frequent than normal use during the day, frequent use
of thebathroom at night is common. Therefore, consideration should be given to direct
accessibilitybetween the bedroom and bathroom. Hopefully, this accessibility would
not require passage through an intervening circulation space. If it does, the route shall
be direct, unobstructed and of sufficient width for a wheelchair to pass easily. Indirect
accessibility should also exist between the bathroom and the more general living areas
of the unit for use of the bathroom bythe guest.
Orientation: visual/audio contact between the bathroom and other areas should be
minimized.It should not be possible to see into the bathroom from the living, dining, or
food preparation areas. View to the outside and natural light is not necessary to
bathroom functions. Where windows should make sure that no loss of privacy occurs.
Windows should not be located overbathtubs.
Furnish-ability: all personal hygiene spaces should provide: lavatory basin, water
closet, bath or shower, appropriate grab bars, storage space and mirror, toilet paper
holder, towel bars. It is essential for the successful functioning of the bathroom or
lavatory that certain minimum clearworking areas are provided around fixtures.
• Lavatory basins: 3' 6"*3 ' 6", the sink shall be centered on one dimension and at
the extremeof the other.
• Water closet: 2'6" *4'4", the water closet shall be centered on the 2' 6"
dimension.
• Tub or shower: 2'4" clear dimension extending out from the access point of
fixture and at least 2'8 along its length, the length dimension shall begin from
the central end of the fixture.
• An emergency call system shall be included in all development. An alarm button
should beplaced in the bathroom in a convenient place but not where it can be
set off accidentally.
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all bathrooms whether naturally ventilated or not shall have air exhaust fans venting to
theoutside and sized according to the code for an interior bathroom.
1.1.1.18 LAUNDRY
Equipment and facilities: to reduce the amount of effort required, a laundry center
should have a sorting table, a heating surface (such as a hotplate), and storage facilities
for soiled clothes, washing supplies, and baskets, as well as a washing machine, dryer,
and ironing board;some may also have ironers. A laundry tray (usually a 14-in.-deep
porcelain enamel sink) is desirable for prewashing, soaking, or starching some items.
Space should be dry, heated, and well lighted, with sufficient electrical outlets, properly
located. Space should be ventilated to remove moisture and odors.
Space arrangements: laundering may be done in a room designed especially for this
purpose,or in a multi-use room, designed also for food preparation, sewing, child play,
and the like. Thebest location, of course, is convenient to other work centers, such as the
kitchen, and the dryingyard so that there will be a minimum of carrying necessary.
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Generally, basements are not considered desirable locations because of their
inconvenience, dampness, and lack of adequate light.
1.1.1.19 STAIRCASE
Whenever possible accommodations for the aged should be on one level and unless
elevators are used located on the ground floor. In the case of low buildings where
elevators are uneconomical, the aged should not be expected to climb more than one
flight. For small unavoidable changes level ramps with a flat slope, not over 5%
preferable to stairs. Where stairs must be used, the following precautions should be
observed.
Figure 28 Staircase
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1.1.1.20 RAMPS
Ramps are essentially for wheelchair users instead of steps. The slope and rise of the
ramp between 1:12 and 1:20 are preferred. Wheelchair users with disabilities have
serious difficultiesusing inclines. So, the most preferred slope of the ramp for the elderly
is 1: 16. Handrails shouldbe provided on both sides at a height between 800 and 900
mm above the ramp level.
At the head and foot of every ramp or section of the ramp, a level platform of the same
width as the ramp itself clear of cross-traffic shall be avoided. Such platform and
immediate landingsshall be at least 1000mm wide, 1500mm long, and at least 1300mm
clear of any door swings.
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entrance landings shall be provided adjacent to the ramp with the minimum
dimension 1800*2000mm. The entrance landing that adjusts the top end of a slope is
provided with floor material to attract the attention of visually impaired persons
(limited to colored floor material whose color and brightness is conspicuously
different from that of the surrounding floor material or the material that emit different
sound.
1.1.1.22 CORRIDORS
All floor surfaces should be non-slip, outside as well as inside the basic dwelling units.
In this connection, apparent slipperiness is as important because of the psychological
danger, as actual slipperiness. Suitable flooring materials include unglazed tile. Un-
waxed wood floors are particularly satisfactory for the wheelchair user. The floor
should be smooth and level, and particular care should be taken with highly jointed
materials such as ceramics tiles or brick orstones. Door thresholds and minor changes
on floor level should be avoided whenever possible.
Figure 31 Corridor
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1.1.1.23 DOOR
Doors should have low resistance closersand a paddle-type deadbolt. The dooropening
should be 3 ft. Wide to permit easy passage of wheelchairs, stretchers, and persons
using crutches. Precautions should be taken to see that doors should not have locks;
provide easy latches instead. Large easy-to-grasp doorknobs or lever-type handles
should be used. Revolving and double-acting doors and automatic door closers are
particularly dangerous and should be avoided. It is also desirable to provide peepholes
orvision panels. Sliding doors conserve valuable spaces in small units and eliminate the
danger of walking into half-open doors.
Figure 32 Door
1.1.1.24 WINDOW
Whenever possible, windows should look out for an interesting view. In housing for
older people, the height of the windows is important. Particularly in the living room,
dining area, andbedroom, sitting and looking out of the window is a daily activity for
many of the elderly. Thebottom of the window should be no higher than 3’2” from the
floor and can be as low as 1’ forwindow walls to include a guard rail at the height that
will not interfere with viewing but that will give a feeling of security to permit viewing
from a standing position, the window should extend to a height of 6’-8” for the
bathroom and kitchen, the eye-level zone is set by the standing height. The opening of
the window should be between 3’-6” and 6’-8” from the floor. For bedrooms, one
window should be low enough to permit a person in bed to look outside. Inaddition to
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making the room more pleasant, a sowing window provides an emergency exit.
Window arrangements that produce a uniform distribution of light are preferable to a
spotty placement of the openings.
A southerly orientation is the most desirable, but the provision should be made for
shading devices. Roller shades should be avoided because of the danger involved in
retrieving a released shade. Venetian blinds or draw-type draperies are preferable.
Passive design is a design that takes advantage of the climate to maintain a comfortable
temperature range. Passive design reduces or eliminates the need for auxiliary heating
or cooling. The passive design utilizes natural sources of heating and cooling, such as
the sun andcooling breezes. It is achieved by appropriately orientating the building on
its site and carefullydesigning the building envelope (roof, walls, windows, and floors).
Well-designed building envelopes minimize unwanted heat gain and loss.
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Select a site protected from the afternoon sun with good solar access, and is open to
cool breezes while remaining sheltered from cold winds during winter.
1.1.3.2 Orientation
Position the building’s long axis toward solar south will maximize solar gain during the
winter month and limit western exposure in the summer.
1.1.3.4 Shading
Rooms are used more frequently placed on the south side for optimal use of natural
light during the day.
1.1.3.6 Insulation
1.1.3.7 Air-sealing
1.1.3.8 Ventilation
Every building must have ventilation to sustain good indoor air quality. Energy-
efficient, airtight buildings need a heat (or energy) recovery ventilation system.
Heavy materials such as brick, concrete, tile, and stone should be utilized in appropriate
thicknesses and areas to insulate the building envelope to store heat and help balance
temperature fluctuations.
1.1.3.10 Landscaping
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Carefully planned landscaping and planting can aid in maximizing the performance of
passive solar design and assist with imperfect situations and site problems.
passive ventilation is a natural ventilation system that makes use of natural forces, such
as wind and thermal buoyancy, to circulate air to and from an indoor space. These
ventilation systems work to regulate the internal air temperature as well as bring fresh
air in and send stale air out. This is largely achieved through the opening and closing of
windows and vents which act as a source of air as well as an exhaust.
Passive solar cooling systems work by reducing unwanted heat gain during the day,
producing non-mechanical ventilation, exchanging warm interior air for cooler exterior
air when possible, and storing the coolness of the night to moderate warm daytime
temperatures. At their simplest, passive solar cooling systems include overhangs or
shades on south-facing windows, shade trees, thermal mass, and crossventilation.
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1.1.3.3 Daylighting
daylighting is an essential design strategy for zero energy buildings. Properly designed
daylighting uses sunlight to offset electrical lighting loads, save energy, and reduce
cooling loads. Daylighting should provide controlled, quality lighting and deliver better
lighting than electric lighting alone. Otherwise, occupants are encouraged to turn on the
electric lights even when they are not needed. At the same time, direct sunlight into
regularly occupied spaces should be limited. The good daylighting design seeks the
right balance between enough daylight and too much sunlight, which can be a source
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The designer of the roof garden should also consider wind pressure. The soil mix used
must be environment friendly, lightweight, and good water holding capacity.
Green roofs:
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Spaces within the residential environment in the elderly homes that are readily
accessible to the dwellers regardless of their sizes, design, or physical features and
which are intended for primarily, amenity or physical recreation, whether active or
passive are termed as outdoor open spaces for the elderly. Outdoor spaces in care
communities have the potential to provide opportunities for sensory stimulation,
socialization, and meaningful activity.
Elderly people spend a much larger proportion of their time within the residential
environmentthan younger people. They are keenly aware of patterns of the sun, cold,
and windy areas and where they can retreat during times of stress. Opportunities for the
residents to contribute to the landscape will be highly valued. Landscape designers need
to ensure that design is congruent with their tastes and needs. We should provide open
spaces that are suitable and appropriate to the needs of the older people and the
residential environment that facilitates rather than hinders independence and interaction
of the older people.
Outdoor spaces have many benefits for elderly people. Scenic walking paths and
gardens add residential character and are features demanded by consumers. Elderly
people need outdoor spaces that include exercise, fresh air, emotional well-being, and
opportunity for socialinteraction. Not being able to go outside is associated with feelings
of depression. They benefit from both active and passive engagement with outdoor
spaces. Active engagement offers feelings of usefulness and productivity, opportunities
for self-expression and personalization, and physical activity. Gardens enable residents
to continue engaging in enjoyable activities, which helps to create familiar, non-
institutional surroundings. Garden activities encourage a positive effect upon elderly
people and an outdoor garden space may result in less agitation beused to calm agitated
ones. Compared to the traditional adult daycare center activities such as exercise and
crafts, horticulture therapy activities resulted in a higher level of active engagement
among the participants with dementia. Outdoor spaces in the care community havethe
potential to provide opportunities for sensory stimulation, socialization, and meaningful
activity.
The benefit of passive engagement with outdoor natural spaces includes increased
socialization, environmental stimulation, increased exposure to sunlight, and
improvement in older adult’s coping strategies. Benefits such as better sleep patterns
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decreased agitation and aggressive behavior, and improved hormone balance has been
observed in association with contact with nature and the outdoors.
Various aspects should be considered while designing outdoor spaces for elderly people.
Spaceshould be accessible and correctly oriented. Similarly, space should be legible
whose landmarks or pathways are easily identifiable and are easily grouped into an over-
all pattern. Itis of special importance when considering environments at the urban scale
of size, time, and complexity. Structuring and identifying the environment is a vital
ability among all mobile animals. Many kinds of cues are used: the visual sensations of
color, shape, motion, or polarization of light, as well as other senses such as smell,
sound, touch, kinesthesia, sense of gravity, and perhaps of electric or magnetic fields.
Indeed, a distinctive and legible environment not only offers security but also heightens
the potential depth and intensity of human experience (lynch, 1964).
". . . The terror of being lost comes from the necessity that a mobile organism is oriented
in itssurroundings."
- (lynch, 1964)
Wayfinding should require minimal effort to map a route in one's mind when heading
to a particular destination. In respect of the elderly, orientation may become more
difficult as a result of deterioration of physical and sensory perception, hence
wayfinding should be more pronounced without the elderly person having to
unnecessarily stress their mind but at the sametime, they should be able to independently
maneuver through the building without having to often ask for help with directions.
Clustering functions of similar nature may help to decreasetravel distances. The use of
color, light, and a variance in a material may also aid in creating a more legible
environment that is simpler to circulate throug
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Because of nature’s many positive benefits, healing gardens are becoming more popular
in healthcare settings. They provide patients, family members, and even employees
with a sanctuary and relief from stress. Although healing gardens have different
therapeutic properties that are typically not associated with medical treatments, they
have great benefits (hartig, 2006). Each person interacts differently with these gardens.
For example, some prefer to sit quietly, whereas others find it more therapeutic to be
interactive. There is viewing nature, whether in the reality of through a medium such as
a painting or a picture, being in nature, andinteracting with nature (pretty, 2006). Any
level of interaction with nature reaps psychologicalhealth benefits and should be seen
as an important therapeutic resource. Having potted plants indoors can even be
beneficial to patients who are unable to go outside (marcus & sachs, 2014).
Gardening is a good example of a structured activity because it not only benefits the
body physically but also mentally. According to joann woy in “accessible gardening”,
gardening can lead to “increased physical strength and mobility, mental and emotional
improvements, increased self-esteem and self-confidence (woy, 1997).” Additionally,
gardening can give seniors a sense of control, especially with many tools that have been
adapted for use for the physically challenged. Using gardening as a therapeutic tool is
not a discovery and today it is often referred to as horticulture therapy. Horticultural
therapy is defined as a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve
individuals’ social, educational, psychological, and physical adjustment, thus
improving their body, mind, and spirit (dannenberg, frumkin, & jackson, 2011).
Horticultural therapy is defined as “a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities
to improve individuals’ social, educational, psychological, and physicaladjustment, thus
improving their body, mind, and spirit.
Horticultural therapy is especially useful for seniors with dementia since it can be
easily adapted to the various skill levels and needs of the individual. Horticultural
therapy can “decrease or slow negative effects of aging” and aid the reduction of
negative behaviors such as agitation (mooney & nicell, 1992). People are biologically
programmed to engage nature asa source of practical utility beyond the obvious material
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When designing a landscape for the elderly, it is important to consider their incremental
and progressive physical limitations. A range of abilities needs to be accommodated
including requiring wheelchairs and walkers, those who stoop or cannot bend easily,
those requiring frequent resting spaces, those that may need assistance with activities.
These concerns, in several ways, inspire the design, pathways, the placement of sitting
spaces, landscape elements,and features and their position and the overall design of the
architectural components.
Shades near the entry provide a progression of lightening levels and protective space
when entering the garden; ample chairs and benches but placed carefully to encourage
walking in thegarden and provide the choice of destination and seating. The garden
must be perceived to be safe. The entire garden shed should be visible from key interior
and exterior places. This subjects the residents to the prominent display area for seasonal
activities and encourages themto explore outdoors while also providing the staff a clear
view of the garden. Firm and level circulation paths with frequent places to pause and
rest provide a sense of safety and comfort. Gardens should contain areas offering
aesthetic as well as functional variety to accommodate a range of users. The overall
organization should be simple and easy to comprehend. Engagingoutdoor spaces offer
a variety of distinct settings with opportunities for observation, or activityand varying
levels of participation.
While designing for elderly people whose sensory experience has depleted, elements
that heighten the sensory stimulation are a must. The environment designs aim for is one
that sparksexcitement and curiosity but doesn’t cause stress or anxiety (eastman, 2013).
Sensory stimulation encompasses many elements including light, color, sound, and
materials. There is no one solution, and any design decision has many implications.
Lighting, materials, and color also contribute to the feeling of the facility. They can
either create a residential environment ora more intuitional environment. These sensory
that heightens the sensory stimulation should make the elderly feel comfortable. As
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nature can excite all the senses, it is important to providenature a prime consideration
while designing.
I. LIGHT
-(kahn, 1989)
Louis kahn had an affection towards sunlight and shadow and their modulation. Kahn
was aware that light is an integral component in defining one's experience of a space.
Light exists as a significant sensory experience and can greatly impact the quality of
life for an individual living in a senior care facility. When discussing light, one must
consider both natural and artificial light as both have major impacts on humans and
their health. All spaces must incorporate as much natural light as possible because a
majority of seniors are greatlyunderexposed to sunlight which is detrimental to their
health. Sunlight impacts the nervous system, one’s mental health, and one’s appetite.
Natural light also helps regulate human circadian rhythms, which are important to our
health and mood, and regulate hormones such as serotonin and melatonin. Improved
sleep patterns have also been linked to exposure to natural light. It has been shown that
not enough exposure to natural light can lead to deterioration of the visual sense and
even lead to physical illness (demello, 2016).
Artificial light is also a key element in a senior care facility, especially since as we age,
changesin our vision cause our sight to decline. Additionally, most medical facilities
use fluorescent lights with acrylic lenses, which are poor sources of light due to glare
and do not look like theywould be found in a residential home. In a recent study, the
american medical association declared that light at night results in adverse health
outcomes, which are particularly relevant for medical facilities that are in operation
around the clock such as within a hospital or elderlycare facility. The study evaluated
the efficacy of using daylight-mimicking leds to enhance cognitive functioning and
improve the health of residents with dementia (demello, 2016).
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II. COLOR
Another sensory influence to consider is color, which is closely linked to light as light
can impact color. As color is an after-effect of light energy, it too is a form of energy
that the mindrecognizes consciously or unconsciously and thus has an effect on body
function and emotion.Color sensations affect people although they are not consciously
thinking about the colors in their particular environment. Colors are divided into two
distinctive groups: cool and warm colors. Cool colors are blue and color predominantly
blue whereas warm colors are red and colors predominantly red and yellow. Although
colors have a varying effect on humans, cool colors are generally known to have a
sedative effect on the mind whereas warm colors shouldbe used to stimulate the mind
(louis, 1947). Overstimulation has been proved to cause changesin the rate of breadth,
pulse rate, and blood pressure that may have negative effects on one's health. Similarly,
people subjected to under-stimulation showed symptoms of restlessness, difficulty to
concentrate, irritation, and other negative reactions (omarjee, 2013). Due to the result
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of these two powerful forces, a balance should be acquired between calming and
stimulating colors.
As we age, our perception of color changes compared to when we were younger. The
major difference is a decline in being able to distinguish between colors, which
becomes even more difficult because of the yellowing of the eye’s lens (demello, 2016).
This fact suggests that, inthe design sense, warm colors are the best choice for interiors
and furnishings because it makesit easier to distinguish between them. However, the
key is to still create a color contrast. Creating high contrast between different color
elements within the design is the best way to enhance seniors’ ability to accommodate
for their vision loss. Color is a tool that bears greaterimportance than simply to adorn
the environment for aesthetic purposes. If used effectively it can be used as a 'visual
identification system' to ease visual perception and assist with orientation and
wayfinding. It has also been shown that color can stimulate reduce anxiety andspeed
recovery it is being used as a tool in many healthcare settings, including senior care
facilities (demello, 2016).
Good color choices for contrast Poor color choices for contrast
The light color against black Dark green against bright red
The dark color against white Yellow against the white or similar
lightness
Light yellow against dark blue Blue against green or similar lightness
III. SOUND
To aid seniors with their hearing, the built environment plays a significant role. Hearing
loss isone of the many impacts of aging. Impairments in hearing are not limited to just
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a lack of individuals’ ability to hear noises but also include the inability to locate the
orientation of the source of the noise, which can cause confusion and anxiety (demello,
2016). Sound from different spaces needs to be controlled so noise in one space does
not distract residents in another. One solution is to use carpet which, will reduce noise
from traveling through the air. Carpet also has less glare than other materials. Walls,
ceilings, windows, and doors all have products that offer sound reducing qualities and
should be chosen where appropriate, for example, bedrooms and bathrooms where
noise transfer should be kept to a minimum. Size ofa facility and the location of spaces
factor into whether designers would need to use sound- proofing materials. One can
also control noise by separating spaces that have different noise goals. For example,
more quiet spaces, such as bedrooms, should not be next to an activity room where loud
activities take place. Careful consideration while zoning of the different facilities and
maximum use of greenery which also act as a sound belt would be appropriate while
designing for the elderly. Although too much noise can be bothersome, no noise can
also have negative impacts. Complete silence is uncomfortable, which is why there
should be some noise, and that noise should be meaningful and informative.
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consideration needs to be balanced with not having enough light to also distinguish
differences in a given environment. Lights should be placed where they can be easily
accessed and so that individuals do not haveto walk far in the dark to turn them on.
Also, using motion-activated lights is a wise idea because then they automatically turn
on and off without anyone having to physically get to them (demello, 2016).
V. TEMPERATURE
Generally speaking, they need a room temperature of about 2-3 degrees c higher, and a
more uniform distribution of heating from floor to ceiling to avoid chilling of the legs
and feet. Theheating system in dwelling units for old people should be so designed as
to use fuel which requires the least possible physical effort to operate. High temperature
or moderately high temperature accompanied by high humidity is poorly borne by
elderly persons, particularly those with heat stress. To ensure adequate rest and sleep
cross-ventilation is especially neededin bedrooms.
I. RESEARCH PAPER 1:
This paper focuses on the results of national standards for the architectural design of
residential care facilities. These standards encourage the creation of architectural spaces
that are both exteriorly and internally homelike and residential. Additionally, they
emphasize arrangement ent that offers a spatial view of the shared area to aid in
navigating. Twelve residential care facilities that were on the market and each had
earned the reputation of being excellent models were utilized as a sample in the study.
The creation of the residential care institutions took place between 1983 and 2003. A
diverse research technique that included interviews and architecture evaluation
methodologies was applied, with each residential care facility acting as a distinct case
study. A spatial theory that claims that the indoor space of architecture may be
characterized in terms of its spatial shape, namely a cell, a corridor, a niche, or a
multifunctional space, was used to study the facilities. Additionally, the entrance and
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the facade's placement and architectural style were examined. Additionally, a numerical
value was assigned to qualitative data to qualitative metric. (andersson, 2011)
Based on the empirical results, the research hypothesizes that the national requirements
lead to three design scenarios, which architects frequently apply when they envision
space for elderly fragile people: at their finest, the standards achieve their goals and
create a comfortable environment where the architectural space is intimately
interwoven into routine eldercare activities. The second result points toward a setting
with high-end architecture and a hotel-like atmosphere. The eldercare provided at the
house is not best done in this area. Despite this, the staff is prepared to overlook these
design issues because the occupants seem happy in their surroundings. Thirdly, the
rules provide a hospital-like setting where the architectural design has been sacrificed
in favor of promoting the medical and sanitary components of eldercare. The setting
exhibits a high level of functionality that is crucial for creating a suitable work
environment but unhelpful for giving residents a sense of home in the common area.
(andersson, 2011)
The vast majority of the sample's residential houses belonged to the third category—
the hospital-like setting. While three houses exhibit such traits that they actualize a
homelike and residential-like milieu, four residential care homes reflect a hotel-like
environment. The accessibility to the outside space from the inside space is a vital
element in the experience of the residential care facility as a homelike, hotellike, or
hospital-like setting. This link is phenomenologically referred to as trans spatiality.
Additionally, residential care facilities frequently have domestic-like facades and are
incorporated into or adjacent to the existing built environment. The interior
architectural area, however, depicts a setting like a hospital. This group includes
residential care facilities constructed in the 20th century in particular. (andersson, 2011)
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This paper provides a thorough explanation of the factors that a municipal competition
organizer must take into account before choosing to hold a competition to redesign
spaces for elderly persons who are feeble. The municipality is a suburb located about
35 kilometers northwest of stockholm, the capital of sweden. The formerly primarily
agricultural hamlet had a significant population increase throughout the 1950s and
1960s, transforming it into a location with a variety of industries near a major city
region. Within the next ten years, the municipality predicts a large increase in the 65
and older age group, which now makes up around 17% of the population. Even though
the majority of people in this age group age healthily, there is a tendency for reliance
to increase among those who are 85 years and older. (andersson, 2011)
This means that there may soon be a demand for more residential care facilities, either
as brand-new construction or renovations of one of the seven already-existing facilities.
However, the municipal administration for social welfare viewed these nursing homes
as off-site environments with an institutional feel. To reconsider the need for room for
elderly and fragile individuals, the government pushed. As a result of the
aforementioned facts, the second municipal architectural competition in 2006 included
an open ideas competition on new homes for elderly persons with or without frailties.
The study's objective was to retrace how the municipality handled this situation. The
interviewing guide utilized for this study has a portion with three questions that were
to be answered using a selection of personal images. Twelve people who were involved
in the municipal process of arranging an architectural competition were questioned
about their memories of things that happened before, during, or after the competition
was realized. These people were recognized as essential participants in the process in
official papers. (andersson, 2011)
All of the interviewees were able to provide their memories of what happened.
Nevertheless, they highlighted several facets of the procedure. These characteristics
represented their divergent viewpoints on the subject of senior housing. As the
competition was being planned, a discursive landscape evolved that characterized the
discussions around the suitable built environment for older people. The discursive
model of the considerations that a municipal organizer considers could be traced using
an existing model of the practice of architecture, in which architecture, human
interactions, and the built environments are located in the center of four opposing
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Five specific discourses on architecture for an aging society were found to revolve
around a generic discourse on human-spatial bound concerns related to aging and
architecture. One discussion placed a higher priority on moral issues that affected how
architecture, care, and compassion were realized. Another discourse offered ideas that
may be used in both architectural and eldercare activities. A third one provided
complete political visions that had geographical implications. The planning-based
discourse, which worked toward project implementation, was the strongest of the five
discourses. However, this discourse tended to downplay the ethical issues and favor
universal fixes. (andersson, 2011)
CASE STUDY
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Antara senior living is a max india-owned indian company that operates autonomous
senior living retirement complexes in india. It was founded in 2011 and has attracted
the attention of the indian media for being one of the first structured ventures to delve
into retirement or assisted living, an area that has frequently been vilified by traditional
parts of indian society.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
neighborhood.
The landscape design stresses the necessity of living a natural lifestyle. The
landscape treatments incorporate issues of safety, security, and use.
The landscape includes areas such as a yoga pavilion, creative activity zones,
terrace gardens, local plazas, organic/herbal gardens, orchard walks, and so on.
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Apartment type a
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1. Living area
2. Dining area
3. Kitchen
4. Master bedroom
5. Bedroom
6. Family lounge
7. Powder room
8. Multipurpose room
9. Utility area
10. Balcony Figure 44 Plan type A
11. Terrace
apartment type b
1. Living area
2. Dining area
3. Kitchen
4. Master bedroom
5. Bedroom
6. Family lounge
7. Study room
8. Powder room
9. Multipurpose room Figure 45 Plan Type B
10. Utility area
11. Balcony
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For tenants' safety and security, apartments feature access control on the bottom
floor through smart cards.
Vibrant interior design in common spaces to bring brightness and enthusiasm.
Double-glazed windows and doors for energy efficiency and climate control.
Two lifts per residence: one for occupants' usage and one for maintenance or
emergency scenarios.
Planters on balconies and patios add a touch of green and improve overall
attractiveness.
Each unit has its own lobby space with chairs for residents to mingle and rest.
Wooden railings/ledges in the foyer and corridors to offer support.
OBJECTIVES
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PROJECT SUMMARY
This housing for elderly people is located on the banks of the rhine. The exceptional
situationof the site allowed to turn the common areas and the hall towards the river: the
residents can enjoy the choreography of passing boats. The program consists of twenty-
five fifty-square- meter homes, a restaurant in three sections, a computer room, a hobby
workshop, a vegetable Garden, and a petanque field. Everything is organized to foster
relations among the residents. Collective living spaces are as generous as possible, with
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abundant natural light. We have designed places that encourage exchanges and social
interaction. Encounter-inviting events and sequences punctuate the routes.
DESIGN FEATURES
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OBJECTIVES
PROJECT SUMMARY
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Dignity village offers senior citizens opportunities to lead an active life, both mentally
and physically. It provides social and moral support to senior people whose families
have failed orcould not provide them with primary care due to many reasons. It runs
active programs that motivate and inspire senior citizens, and help them achieve
fulfillment in life, despite their age.To make them feel worthwhile again, making an
active contribution to society. Above all, instilling in them a sense of pride and self-
esteem, so they can live their life with dignity. Old age homes are meant for senior
citizens who are unable to stay with their families or are destitute. These old age homes
have special medical facilities for senior citizens such as mobilehealth care systems,
ambulances, nurses, and provision of well-balanced meals.
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PLANNING AND DESIGNING
The village is located at the side of a lake. It is composed of different segregated units
having different functions. The residential units are located at the rare side of the site
and the businesscenter, health club, community hall, clinic and are placed at the front
side of the site aligned with the road. Parking and the main entrance are placed at
different corners. Large open spaces, pools, and water bodies have been created for
recreational purposes.
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There are three types of residential units with areas ranging from 200 to 500 sq. Ft.
Residentialunits are further described as follows:
Elite cottage: the cottage is for those elderly who want to live independently and don’t
requiresupport to conduct daily activities. The cottage has been designed with anti-skid
flooring and consists of a living, pantry, and bedroom with an outdoor lawn of about
100 sq. Ft.
Classic cottage: it is another prototype with an area of 350 sq. Ft. The cottage has been
designedwith anti-skid flooring and consists of a living, pantry, and bedroom.
Economy cottage: another type is an economy cottage with an area of 200 sq. Ft. It
consists ofa bedroom with an attached anti-skid bathroom, puja alcoves, wardrobe.
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DESIGN FEATURES
Aiming for an independent lifestyle with privacy and dignity for its residents.
Located at the side of the lake.
A 24/7 care unit called “mother teresa cottage” provides 24 hours’ care service.
Provision of separate dining and kitchen in each block.
Rural development and knowledge contribution center
OBJECTIVES
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To study about kind of spaces and facilities provided.
to study the impact of building scale on the elderly.
PROJECT SUMMARY
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PLANNING AND DESIGNING
The site is spread over the land of 8 ropanis. The eight small building blocks are placed
around the site creating a central open space. The open space in the center is used for
socialization, walking, and resting. The human-scale building blocks have a sloping
roof and so does the site with moderate contour. The space for agriculture, sports,
And the farm has also been defined. The natural contour has properly defined the living
space and the space for agriculture, sports, and farming.
Socializing space
Figure 55 Sketch of site plan
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DESIGN FEATURES
The cowshed, hen coops, and goat shed for animal therapy.
INFERENCE
OBJECTIVES
PROJECT SUMMARY
Siddhi saligram senior citizen’s home was established in the loving memory of a boy
named siddhi saligram dhaubadel next to siddhi memorial hospital. The goal of siddhi
shaligram senior citizens' home is to offer a home away from home for the elderly and
to help them continue to live peaceful, fulfilling, and happy lives. It offers support to
senior citizens in need, regardless of their status, wealth, caste, religion, relationship,
gender, or ethnicity. The servicesat sssch are available to those aged 60 and above who
meet any of the following criteria: lack of family support, neglect by family, lack of local
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support, physical limitations, inadequatehousing, or limited access to information about
available social agencies for emergency assistance.
It is residential and daycare facilities for the elders and the facilities like social
environment and companionship, regular yoga classes and meditation, religious and
cultural celebrations, nursing and caregiver services, bhajan kirtan and satsanga
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(chanting), free refreshments for the members of the daycare center. Various facilities
offered for residential care are regular health checkups, 24-hour nursing and caregiver
services, specialized doctor visits and ambulance services: medical, orthopedic and
psychological, etc., religious tour and picnics, regular yoga classes and meditation,
festival celebrations, regular counseling, family visit, and reintegration aid.
Siddhi saligram senior citizen’s home has courtyard planning and has the architectural
character of surroundings. It has a brick façade and sloping roof as that of its surrounding
areas.The site can be accessed from the southern main gate or also from the hospital
area as the hospital and senior citizen’s center share the same premises. It has a garden
and daycare centerin the front yard. The building can be accessed through the ramp
which leads to the internal courtyard.
Ground floor: dormitory, kitchen & dining hall, nursing station, x-ray, ward
First floor: store, bedrooms, sun terrace
Second floor: bedrooms, library
third floor: administrative, training rooms
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Residential units have different types of bedrooms found are single bed units, twin bed
units, units with four beds, 5 beds, and 8 beds. There is the provision of the attached
bathroom in each unit. The ground floor consists of a nurse room for the elderly who
need assistance while the upper floor is for independent elderly who don’t need
assistance for their daily activities. The area of the two-bedded room is 169.884 sq. Ft.,
the four bedded room is 291.3 sq. Ft. And the five bedded room is 370.26 sq. Ft. There
is the provision of handrails in the passage, stairs,and bathroom to ease the movement
of the elderly. Most of the rooms gain natural lighting andcross ventilation. The main
entry porch acts as a major transition between indoor and outdoor areas. It is the
threshold between public and semi-private spaces. The elderly sit on the front porch
and views the various activities taking place in the front yard.
SOCIALIZING SPACES
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Indoor: entry porch, courtyard, library, terrace, corridor outdoor: front yard, daycare
center
DESIGN FEATURES
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Figure 65 Handrail
INFERENCE
Difficulty in mobility for residents of the upper floor due to lack of an elevator.
Lack of common room for socialization.
Dissatisfaction among residents.
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OBJECTIVES
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Figure 70 JWDC
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E
Figure 72 General layout of JWDC
N S
W
Every room has entry from outside and verandah is provided infront of each
room.
Adequate amount of light is provided to the studio of painting through skylight.
• Thermal environment: as traditional houses are thermally comfortable.
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DIFFERENT SECTION
in women development center, we have five different sections for the art production.
They are:
Painting section
Ceramic section
Sewing section
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screen painting
Figure 78 Storeroom
STUDY OF
VARIOUS SPACES
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INFERENCES
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PROJECT SUMMARY
DESIGN FEATURES
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RECEPTION
KITCHEN
BEDROOM
CIRCULATION
CLINIC
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Figure 85 Bedroom
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DESIGN INFERENCES
SITE ANALYSIS
The elderly housing should be integrated with the peaceful and residential
neighborhood. It should ideally be located in an area that is safe, attractive. The
environment should include sidewalks that are wide enough and in good condition
crosswalks that are separated from the vehicular flow and a flat or minimal slope. The
housing in the surrounding environments should have a similar density to that of the
elderly residents. This will be a means of avoiding visual isolation. When the housing
typology the elderly reside in is high density and surrounding housing is low density, it
may be suitable to locate the elderly close to facilities such as schools and crèches that
have high occupancy levels.
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would be in addition to, andout of the way of, those areas used by other
residents, particularly children.
• Consideration should be given to possible changes in the overall land use
pattern, in terms of probable trends and projected plans.
The site is located at the bathanaha village of ekdara municipality. Thesite is within 5 min
walking distance from india-nepal border. The total site area is 30 ropani which is regular
rectangular.
Grographical cordinates;
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road - from jaleshwor, sursand (bihar), parihar (bihar), sahashram, kataiya, madhawa,
halkhori, barahi
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▪ the site is close to nature and should have a strong connection with the hosting
environment
Figure 89 Road
I. STRENGTH
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• Located near the residential area yet has a peaceful environment and away
from thechaos of the city.
• The site has proper infrastructures like transportation, communication.
• Easy access to community
• Location of hospitals and schools within the periphery.
II. WEAKNESS
III. OPPORTUNITY
• The site is closer to the residential area and the communal access.
• the orientation of the site allows maximum sunlight which is beneficial for the
elderly.
IV. THREAT
1.24. BYE-LAWS
PROGRAM FORMULATION
Programmatic resolution is the collective analysis drawn from the various case studies
(nationaland international) and the questionnaire survey.
I. PUBLIC
• RECEPTION
• MANAGER’S ROOM
• STAFF ROOM
• MEETING ROOM
• ACCOUNT SECTION
• TOILET
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• STOREROOM
• PANTRY
• SHOPS
• HALL
• GUARD HOUSE
• ACTIVITY ROOM
• TRAINING ROOM
• RECEPTION
• CONSULTATION ROOM
• NURSING ROOM
• PHARMACY
• INDOOR GAME HALL
• WORKSHOP ROOM
III. SEMIPRIVATE
• KITCHEN
• DINING
• LIVING AREA
• TOILET
• LIBRARY
IV. PRIVATE
• BEDROOM
• ATTACHED WASHROOM
• CAREGIVER ROOM
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PROGRAM AREA
1. ADMINISTRATION
v. MEETING ROOM
vii. PANTRY
viii. TOILET
ix. STORE
2. CAFÉ
i. SEATING 90 SQ. M.
ii. KITCHEN
iii. STORE
iv. BAKERY
3. COMMERCIAL ZONE
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i. SHOPS 40 SQ. M.
ii. STORE
4. COMMUNITY HALL
ii. STAGE
iii. HALL
v. TOILET
vi. STORE
5. DAY CARE
i. RECEPTION 71 SQ. M.
iv. TOILET
v. STORE
6. LEARNING ROOM
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iii. TOILET
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PROGRAM AREA
7. HEALTH HUB
ii. RECEPTION
v. PHYSIOTHERAPY ROOM
vii. OPD
viii. TOILET
8. CLUB HOUSE
v. INDOOR HALL
vi. SHOWER
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Total built up area = carpet area + 40% of carpet area = 5981.5 sq. M = 11 ropani 12
aanasite area = 30 ropani = 15262.11 sq. M
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2.1 INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, the overall design process of the elderly home will be explored.
Developing a concept and design for an old age home requires careful consideration of
various factors, including the needs of the residents, the available resources, and the
regulatory requirements. After analyzing the literature review, case studies,
programmatic requirements and the site information, the concept of design is developed
in various steps.
I. GERONTOLOGY
Gerontology is the study of aging and its related physical, psychological, and social
changes. When considering the body, mind, and soul concept, gerontology can be
viewed through the lens of each of these components.
Body: In terms of the body, gerontology focuses on the physical changes that occur as
we age. These changes include the natural deterioration of cells and tissues, loss of
muscle mass and bone density, and changes in organ function. Gerontology also looks
at age-related diseases such as dementia, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease. To
maintain a healthy body as we age, it is important to engage in regular physical activity,
eat a healthy diet, and receive appropriate medical care.
Mind: The psychological changes that occur as we age are another important aspect of
gerontology. These changes can include declines in memory, cognitive function, and
emotional regulation. Gerontology examines the factors that contribute to these
changes, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. It also looks at ways to
prevent or mitigate the effects of cognitive decline through activities such as cognitive
training, social engagement, and mindfulness practices.
Soul: The concept of the soul is often associated with spirituality or religion, and
gerontology can also examine the spiritual or existential aspects of aging. This can
include exploring issues related to meaning and purpose, forgiveness, and relationships
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with others. Gerontology can also look at how spirituality and religious beliefs can
affect mental and physical health as we age.
Figure 93 Gerontology
The concept of mind, body, and soul can be applied in various aspects of life, including
building design and architecture. Here are a few ways in which this concept can be
incorporated into building design:
Mind: a building's design can impact the mental well-being of its occupants.
Incorporating natural light, views of nature, and quiet spaces for reflection can help
promote relaxation and reduce stress. Additionally, incorporating elements of color
psychology can help create a calming or stimulating environment depending on the
intended use of the space.
Body: the physical comfort of building occupants should also be taken into
consideration in the design process. Elements such as ergonomically designed furniture,
adjustable lighting, and temperature controls can help promote physical comfort and
reduce discomfort.
Soul: the soulful aspect of building design can be achieved by incorporating elements
of spirituality, such as natural materials like wood and stone, and creating spaces for
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meditation or reflection. Additionally, incorporating art and culture into the design can
help create a sense of connection and community.
The concept of mind, body, and soul in building design seeks to create spaces that
promote the well-being and overall health of its occupants.
BIOLOGICAL
PSYCHOLOGICAL
SOCIAL
SOUL-NOURISHING
Figure 95 Conversion
Figure 96 Mechanism of MBS
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Geometric shapes are all around us. A lifetime of viewing different shapes has had a
deep impact on how we perceive them. As a result, they have the potential to trigger
certain emotions and thoughts. Every work of art is supposed to communicate
something specific but in a subtle, non-verbal manner. And by understanding the
psychology of shapes, we can use them in such a way that they support our message.
In contrast, a poor understanding of shape psychology can interfere with the clarity of
our visual communication. And the more difficult it is for people to understand what
our design is communicating, the less engagement it will get.
2.1.2.1. CIRCLE
The roundness of circles, ovals, and ellipses implies softness, flexibility, motion, and
fluidity. These geometric shapes point to the idea of being on the move or that
something is hard to pin down. This is because they remind us of a ball or a wheel,
along with celestial bodies that are always in motion, such as the sun, moon, and
different planets. Take the design below, for example, which uses circular shapes to
appeal to our unending quest for new discoveries. Where squares convey weight and
strength, circular shapes are fluffy and light, such as clouds or bubbles. The absence of
any sharp edges also makes them look warm and friendly. Moreover, circles represent
the concept of continuity and completeness. They symbolize the eternal whole because
there is no beginning or end in circular constructions, which leads to their association
with lofty ideas like karma or eternity. It also refers feminine.
2.1.2.2. TRIANGLE
While squares and rectangles suggest a sense of stillness and calm, triangle shapes are
dynamic in nature. In shape psychology, they are used to indicate adventure, intensity,
or getting somewhere. For example, the triangular shapes in the poster design
below signal unpredictability and energy. When pointing down, triangles remind us of
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spearheads and sharp teeth, symbolizing conflict, instability, and danger. For this
reason, triangles have been used in concepts associated with divine wisdom and the
discovery of self. The three sharp points of a triangle symbolize the locking of energy
inside to fuel the union of mind, spirit, and body.
Based on the site analysis, various site inferences have been taken for the design
development. Various components have been placed on the site taking the following
parameters in consideration.
• Noise level
• Site view
II. ZONING
This center requires to create an environment both for public interference and private living
purpose without intruding each other function. Zoning of the site while designing is an
integral part of the whole design as it determines level of public intrusion as well as private
spaces to individual habitants. It creates the barrier for the public to non- subsidiary space
and promotes easy circulation.
• Public
• Reception
• Manager’s room
• Staff room
• Meeting room
• Account section
• Toilet
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• Storeroom
• Pantry
• Shops
• Hall
• Guard house
• Semi public
• Activity room
• Training room
• Reception
• Consultation room
• Nursing room
• Pharmacy
• Indoor game hall
• Workshop room
• Semiprivate
• Kitchen
• Dining
• Living area
• Toilet
• Library
• Private
• Bedroom
• Attached washroom.
• Caregiver room
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• Natural Light and Ventilation: Courtyards provide a source of natural light and
ventilation to the surrounding spaces. This can help reduce the dependence on
artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems, resulting in energy
savings and a more comfortable indoor environment.
• Privacy: Courtyards can act as a buffer zone between the interior spaces and the
outside world. They can provide a sense of privacy and security while still
allowing for the enjoyment of the outdoors.
• Social Interaction: Courtyards can serve as gathering places for social
interaction and community building. They can encourage interaction among
building occupants and foster a sense of community.
• Aesthetics: Courtyards can be aesthetically pleasing and add visual interest to a
building or complex of buildings. They can serve as a focal point and enhance
the overall appearance of the architecture.
• Flexibility: Courtyards can be used for a variety of purposes, including
recreation, gardening, and outdoor dining. They offer a flexible space that can
be adapted to meet the needs of the building occupants.
• Noise Reduction: Courtyards can act as a buffer against noise pollution from
outside sources, such as traffic or construction. They can help create a quieter,
more peaceful indoor environment.
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Figure 97Courtyard
In Nepal's Terai region, the traditional houses feature sloping roofs with eaves that
project outwards. These roofs are typically made of thatch or corrugated metal sheets,
supported by bamboo or wooden frames. The roofs are designed to be steeply pitched
to prevent water from pooling on the surface, which can cause leaks and damage to the
structure.
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• Accessibility: The home should be designed with easy access in mind. This
includes features like wide hallways, ramps, and no-step entrances. These
design elements make it easier for elderly individuals with mobility issues to
move around the home.
• Flooring: The type of flooring used in an elderly home is important. It should
be slip-resistant and easy to clean. Carpeting should be avoided as it can be a
tripping hazard.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential in an elderly home. The home should
be well-lit to minimize the risk of falls and make it easier for seniors to see.
• Bathroom safety: Bathrooms can be dangerous for elderly individuals. The
bathroom should be designed with safety features like grab bars, non-slip
flooring, and a raised toilet seat.
Incorporating vernacular architecture into the design of an old age home can also help
to create a sense of community and connection between residents. For example, using
local materials such as stone, wood, or thatch can create a connection to the natural
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environment and local culture. The use of open courtyards, verandas, and shaded areas
can provide comfortable outdoor spaces for residents to socialize and interact with each
other.
Incorporating vernacular architecture into the design of an old age home can be an
effective way to create a welcoming and sustainable living environment for senior
citizens. By combining traditional building practices with modern amenities and design
elements, architects can create a space that promotes community, comfort, and a sense
of connection to the surrounding environment.
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An axis from entry leading to the temple is introduced to the site. Admin block and
recreational block are further ordered on the two sides of the axis, and are connected to this
main spine with the help of branching pathways. This axis gives the visual connection to
the meditation and prayer hall which is the spiritual center thus giving them a sense of
spirituality as soon as they enter the site. Thus, planning of the individual block, its relation
with the other blocks and the pathways connecting them all are done so as to ensure privacy
an facilitate proper functioning of the center.
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should be designed so that the residents experience the environment similar to their
community making them feel as close to a close to a home as possible.
Thus, all the buildings are designed as fusion of traditional and modern architecture,
the design of building approaches minimalist traditional style with the use of brick, mud
plaster, slope roof, and bamboo. Accommodation blocks are also designed with the
inspiration from the vernacular architecture of terai region, so that residents have the sense
of belonging and feel like a ‘home’, rather than an institution.
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I. ENTRANCE
The main entry is on the western part of the site which is through the secondary road.
There is vehicular entry that leads to parking and there is pedestrian entry as well. The
entrance gate leads to the entrance plaza has a direct access to the public functions in
the site i.e., Administration, gallery, training blocks, multipurpose hall, cafeteria and
library.
The entrance has visual connection to the prayer hall that gives the feeling of spirituality
as soon as one enters the complex also. Guard house is provided in entrance for the
purpose of security.
II. PARKING
Parking is provided next to the main entrance gate for the staff member of as well as
the users of the multipurpose hall and training hall. There is a provision of four wheelers
which is 15 in number and two wheelers which is 30 in number. Parking is surrounded
by vegetation all around which acts as the noise buffer as well as visual barrier. A
service road is provided through the parking that leads to cafeteria.
Admin block is placed near the entrance. As soon as one enters the building, the open
to air green courtyard with reception and lobby welcomes the visitors. Waiting lounge
placed on the lobby faces the green courtyard along with the visual connection to the
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water body present in front of the building that provides soothing environment and
relieves stress from the visitors.
IV. CAFE
Cafe with a capacity of 40 people is open up for the community people as well as for
the residents of the village. Cafe has been placed to create social integration among the
community people and the residents of the elderly village. It is place between
multipurpose hall and admin block.
V. MULTIPURPOSE HALL
The auditorium hall of 200 people capacity can house the various functions and the
performances. The community people also could rent the hall which will contribute to
the village financially. The auditorium hall has been designed considering the
functional and acoustic requirements. Various supporting spaces like backstage,
changing room, makeup room, storage, technical room, washrooms, the lobby have
been provided.
VI. CANTEEN
Café with a capacity of 50 people is open for the residents of the old age home. It is one
storey block with kitchen, open dining, and closed dining area.
A 1BHK (1 Bedroom Hall Kitchen) residence located in the eastern part of a site
typically refers to a one-bedroom apartment situated on the eastern side of a property
or housing complex. Here's a description of such a residence:
This 1BHK apartment is designed to offer comfortable living space for individuals or
couples. Upon entering, you step into a welcoming hall that serves as a multipurpose
area for relaxation and entertainment. The hall is spacious enough to accommodate a
small dining table, a sofa set, and other furniture as per your needs.
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Moving further, you'll find a well-appointed kitchen adjacent to the hall. The kitchen is
equipped with essential amenities such as a stove, refrigerator, sink, and storage
cabinets. It provides ample space for cooking meals and storing kitchen essentials.
The bedroom in this 1BHK residence is designed to provide privacy and tranquility. It
is typically spacious enough to accommodate a double-sized bed, a wardrobe, and other
necessary furniture. Large windows allow natural light to enter the room, creating a
bright and airy ambiance. The bedroom serves as a cozy retreat for relaxation and rest.
As this residence is situated in the eastern part of the site, it may offer specific
advantages such as better exposure to sunlight during the morning hours, providing a
cheerful and well-lit living space. It may also provide views of the sunrise or
surrounding landscapes, depending on the location.
In the eastern part of the site, an Assisted Unit has been established within an old age
home, designed specifically to accommodate 12 people. This facility aims to provide
comprehensive support and care to elderly individuals in need of assistance in their
daily activities.
The primary focus is to cater to the specific requirements of the elderly residents, who
may have various health conditions or mobility limitations. Trained and compassionate
staff members are available round-the-clock to provide personalized care, including
assistance with personal hygiene, medication management, and mobility support. The
staff members are well-versed in creating a nurturing environment that promotes
independence and preserves the dignity of each resident.
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To enhance the quality of life for the elderly individuals, it offers a range of amenities
and services. There are common areas for socializing and engaging in recreational
activities, such as a community room for group events and a serene outdoor space for
relaxation. Nutritious and balanced meals are prepared on-site, taking into
consideration any dietary restrictions or preferences of the residents.
Overall, the Assisted Unit in the eastern part of the old age home provides a safe,
comfortable, and supportive environment for 12 individuals in their golden years.
Through personalized care, social engagement, and access to medical services, this
facility strives to enhance the residents' quality of life and promote their overall well-
being.
In the eastern part of the site, there is a semi-independent unit consisting of four blocks,
each spanning two storeys. This unit has been specifically designed to cater to the needs
of the elderly residents in the old age home. With a focus on providing comfort and
convenience, the unit offers a few bedrooms, each with an attached washroom.
The semi-independent unit aims to provide a sense of privacy and autonomy to its
residents while ensuring they have easy access to necessary facilities and support. The
two-storey structure allows for ample space for the residents, giving them room to move
around and engage in various activities.
Each block within the unit is thoughtfully designed to provide a homely atmosphere,
fostering a sense of community, and belonging among the residents. The bedrooms are
well-appointed, offering a cozy and comfortable living space for the elderly individuals.
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The attached washrooms are equipped with modern amenities and are designed to be
accessible and user-friendly, catering to the unique needs of the residents.
The location of this semi-independent unit in the eastern part of the site offers a tranquil
setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the main complex. The surrounding
environment is carefully maintained, with gardens and green spaces providing a serene
backdrop for the residents to enjoy. Additionally, the unit is strategically positioned to
ensure easy access to common areas, recreational facilities, and medical assistance.
Overall, the semi-independent unit with its two storeys and four blocks, featuring
bedrooms with attached washrooms, provides a comfortable and inclusive living space
for the elderly residents in the old age home. It promotes a sense of independence while
offering the necessary support and amenities to enhance the quality of life for its
occupants.
In the southern part of the site at the old age home, there is a serene outdoor meditation
and walking trail that encircles a beautiful pond located near the temple. This trail
provides a tranquil and peaceful environment for residents to engage in mindful
activities and connect with nature.
The trail itself is carefully designed to blend harmoniously with the natural
surroundings. Lined with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and tall trees, it creates a
soothing and rejuvenating ambiance. The gentle sounds of chirping birds and rustling
leaves add to the serenity of the space, creating an ideal setting for meditation and
relaxation.
As residents embark on the trail, they can enjoy the picturesque views of the pond,
which serves as the centerpiece of this outdoor oasis. The pond is adorned with water
lilies and other aquatic plants, creating a visually appealing and calming sight. The
gentle ripples on the water's surface reflect the peaceful atmosphere and contribute to a
sense of tranquility.
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The trail offers ample space for walking and provides benches strategically placed
along the way, allowing residents to take breaks, sit, and contemplate. These resting
spots provide an opportunity for individuals to absorb the beauty of their surroundings
and find solace in the serenity of nature.
Residents can engage in outdoor meditation sessions along the trail, finding inner peace
and mental clarity amidst the natural beauty. The peaceful ambiance and the gentle
breeze create an ideal environment for reflection and relaxation, allowing individuals
to let go of stress and find moments of stillness.
Overall, the outdoor meditation and walking trail around the pond near the temple in
the southern part of the site at the old age home offers a rejuvenating and tranquil
experience for residents. It provides an opportunity for them to connect with nature,
find inner peace, and enjoy the serenity of their surroundings.
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CONCLUSION
Old age homes are notoriously difficult to design since the occupants' mindsets are
frequently fluid and need new insights. An old age hold-aging must strive to create a
space to inspire hope and vitality rather than merely serve as a refuge for the elderly,
who are frequently left by their relatives. It is necessary to make some minor
adjustments to the public design's natural dynamics to conform to the specifications of
the old age hold-aging to provide a place for older persons to lead a happier and
healthier lifestyle, simplicity, and dignity in the design of the places must be observed.
Part of the gap between human science and architecture is due to the educating process
of architects, the absence of evidence-based standards or best practices to which
architects may refer, and the lack of translational research between domains. The report
established a theoretical framework for bringing into architecture the vision of design
for active and healthy living; elements that medical research suggests would add value
to active and healthy aging.
Nepal is now following in the footsteps of the western world by attempting to establish
an oah system to accommodate the nuclear family structure and globalized work
market. Nepal's lack of a framework to handle the rising demand for oahs provides
exciting social opportunities. Nepal is able to deviate from conventions and implement
more innovative solutions that form a networked care system between the community,
families, and people. Aging support groups are on the right road in their efforts to find
long-term solutions that engage older individuals in civic activity, motivate the
community and younger generation to stay involved in the caregiving process, and raise
public awareness of elderly concerns. The government is attempting to meet the needs
of elderly people through a welfare system centered on service provision. Despite
estimates of a considerable rise in the percentage of older people in the population over
the next forty years, broad concerns of population aging are not among the
government's primary policy objectives currently.
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RECOMMENDATION
Developing countries, such as Nepal, must design senior citizen welfare programs that
are compatible with preserving traditional values while improving the living standards
of the elderly. The changing necessities of industrialization and urbanization imposed
on society should be incorporated into current cultural values with the required
modifications. Furthermore, the present nominal senior citizen allowance must be at
least quadrupled, and the distribution mechanism must be made scientific and
accessible to needy seniors. Above all, older citizens should feel like 'seniors,' not
'ancient and outdated,' by engaging them in stress-relieving activities. The age of
retirement should not be based just on the number of years worked but should be
scientifically determined based on the individual's capacity, health condition, and job
needs, i.e., it should be optional rather than mandatory. The mission, on the other hand,
would suggest that, given the projected acceleration of demographic aging and high
levels of migration in the coming decades, it is not too soon for the government to take
measures to encourage all major stakeholders to act in advance to meet the challenges
of population aging.
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