|
The concept of “aging in place” is a common solution to an aging society in most developed nations facing the problem. In Taiwan, as its population is aging fast, we have to cope with problems resulting from the continuing increase in the number of old people who need to be cared. In recent years, day service centers have been the focus of the government policy in order to promote the health among older adults. Services provided in such day service centers aim to reduce the number of individuals for stays in long-term care institutes, and through well-designed social activities, aging and cognitive decline can be prevented. This study set out to examine the effects of space planning and design of day service centers on the behaviors of seniors.
The research was carried out based on X Day Service Center in a case study format. In the first stage, individuals’ daily use of the facilities in the service center was recorded. Data was collected and analyzed within a qualitative paradigm. The first stage inquires into the effect of the using behavior and life style between the older adults and the staff. In the second stage, action research methodology was adopted. Rearrangement and relocation of the facilities were made. Five areas of facilities were set up in order to investigate the users’ choice of the type of facilities after the relocation.
Relocation of the facilities has an influence on the using behaviors of the seniors. The effects of the relocation are as follows: 1. More space is created, thus increasing varied options. 2. Barrier-free facilities make it easier for seniors to move around the center. 3. The continuity between working table and activity area enhance interactions between the employees in the day service center and the older adults. 4. Substitute Services are set up to provide companionship to the older adults. The benefits of facilities adjustment are: 1. Interactions between the employees and the seniors are promoted. 2. A number of small room are designed for meditation, group conversations or emotion release areas. 3. A wider range of stop locations intend to increase activity options. 4. The hallways are no longer passages. The hallways serve as a catalyst for a chain of action. 5. Windows provide the view of nature.
|