According
to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population group 65 years and
older grew by twelve percent (12%) between 1990 & 2000.
Those 85 years and above increased in number by 38% during
the same decade. The rate of increase in the elderly
population is expected to intensify in the next two decades
as the "Baby Boom" generation (born 1946-1965) reaches
retirement age. These statistics portend an increasing
demand for both early retirement properties and facilities
for the elderly.
The
firm Robert C. McHugh - Architect has studied the housing
and health care needs for older citizens and is ready to assume
design responsibility for the related building types.
We
believe that we can help foster a better quality of life for
the elderly through design.
Over the
past few years we have made a study of the building types
needed to meet a greater demand for retirement housing. During
the next twenty years the "baby boom" generation will be retiring
and entering the latter phases of their lives. In early retirement
many will be down sizing to smaller homes and relocating in
quieter places. Smaller, more efficient houses will meet this
demand. Click on "Early Retirement" for more information.
Others
less fortunate will need homes where special attention is
available. In many cases an "Assisted Living" will suit their
requirements. Then as age and debilitation sets in, a large
number of elderly people will need the services of an "Extended
Care or Alzheimers Facility". The case studies which follow
identify these types and propose solutions. Our firm is ready
to assume design responsibility for all these building types.
Assisted
Living Units:
As
the years pass by, aging for many older persons is characterized
by decreasing strength, dwindling energy and diminishing acuity.
Yet these people remain healthy and somewhat active. Some
have lost their lifelong mates. A large number have lost a
few basic skills which relate to daily living. They are not
incapacitated, but need help with certain things. Living alone
becomes more difficult both physically and mentally.
Residential
Features Enhance Feelings of Home
People
who have drifted into this phase of life are not necessarily
ready for long term care or a nursing home. Nevertheless,
they could benefit from a less institutionalized form of congregate
living. Perhaps they would enjoy a living situation with a
private apartment, which offers a personal space where individuality
can be expressed and freedom appreciated. A place that equates
to home, with opportunities to interact with others, to participate
in captivating activities, to engage in stimulating exercise,
and to eat healthful, appetizing meals.
“Assisted Living”
is a life style concept that addresses these needs. The buildings
are residential in style and character, but are grouped in
multi-unit complexes, which offer recreational, social, educational
and health care options. They express the feeling of home,
yet are laid out sensibly with efficiency in mind. Common
areas are available for a variety of activities including
dining, crafts, sitting, social functions and exercise. A
sitting space by each corridor entry facilitates interaction
between neighbors.
Units
Grouped Close to Activity Area with an
Outdoor Walking Path Passing By the Porches
Tenants express individuality within their
apartment. It is home for them, and allows for the décor
of their choice. The furniture, finishes, colors and memorabilia
are quite selective and personal. There is ample space for sleeping
and sitting, with extra chairs for visitors. A small kitchenette
for snacks and guest service is included, although the basic
meal service happens in the dining room. Each unit has a large
bathroom with an accessible shower and ample space for linens
and toiletries. Bathing is available close by in a common therapy
pool or hot tub.
A quaint sitting porch
is an adjunct to each living space for outdoor sitting during
the warmer months. A walking path winds around the complex
and passes by at a comfortable distance. Neighbors can amble
by with a friendly greeting, or stop in to chat as the mood
prevails. The grounds are landscaped with native vegetation
and lofty shade trees which soften the impact of the adjacent
streets and neighboring developments.
Comfortable
Compact Units with
Porches for Outdoor Sitting
The
design and construction of these buildings is of durable materials
that speak quality and charm. There is a warmth being expressed
which is reflective of home. Here is an opportunity for aging
people to live closely and support each others needs, yet
maintain privacy within their own personal apartment. People
in this setting are able to continue to enjoy the essence
of life as they age gracefully with dignity.
For Creative, Responsive Design
Services,
Contact us in Paonia, Colorado:
(970) 527-5189.
Extended
Care/Alzheimers:
Perhaps the most distressing phase of human life is
when strength, agility and mental acuity have diminished to the
point whereby individuals can no longer take care of themselves.
Not only is this discouraging to the person afflicted, but is also
a burden to family members and friends. It is depressing to see
a once active, energetic and intelligent human being, one who was
revered and respected, reduced to a vegetating hulk. Yet all families,
regardless of power or wealth, may be faced with this experience.
Main Floor
Plan Divided Into Separate Housing Segments
The “Extended Care” facility has long
been the solution for families not able to provide constant care
for older folks at home. An “Alzheimers Unit” is a specialized
form of extended care for those afflicted. These institutions are
comprehensive programs for the elderly, of which buildings are a
component. The architecture needs to be compatible with the agenda,
keeping in mind that the building is a home, a place where people
live.
Those directly afflicted are still alert
and aware of their surroundings. Most however, are powerless to
affect these conditions. Family and caregivers must assume the duty
of providing comfort. The elderly folks need privacy, prepared food,
bathing assistance, clean facilities, social interaction, exercise
and mental stimulation. Many need protection from themselves, and
some need to be restrained from wandering and becoming lost.
Housing Segments
Linked To Each
Other Via Interior Walking Path
Between four and six housing segments are included
in the total complex. There is also a central kitchen, food storage
area, and a laundry. Secure places for drug storage are needed. Management
personnel and health care providers utilize office space and therapy
rooms. Space is necessary to store furniture items for a variety of
needs.
Separate Kitchen,
Dining and Activity
Areas For Each Housing Segment
Residents have a private bedroom with a small
bathroom for personal comfort. Storage for clothing and linens
is included.
People in this phase of life are
more comfortable in smaller groups. So the complex is best divided
into segments of about twelve units. A dining room is included in
each division, as well as a small kitchen, social and activity spaces.
Bathing takes place in a special tub room where staff assistance is
available.
Compact Single
Occupancy Rooms
Visitors to the complex
are greeted at a reception desk with a comfortable lounge close
by for waiting. Interior walking paths are the connection between
public areas and the living units, looping through the complex and
linking the housing segments with one another. Residents can use
them to wander about without getting lost or disoriented. Interior
paths also connect to secure exterior walkways for outdoor exercise.
Warm Friendly
Entry For Family And Guests
The last phase of ones life should be experienced
in a dignified place. Although there is a need for order and efficiency,
the living experience can be warm and friendly. Design of the facility
should bring support, comfort and delight to the residents.
For Creative, Responsive Design
Services,
Contact us in Paonia, Colorado:
(970) 527-5189.
Robert
C. McHugh Architect 433 Box Elder Ave.
P.O. Box 1427
Paonia, Colorado 81428
Western Colorado Architect Robert C. McHugh
Phone: (970)
527 5189
Fax: (970) 527 5192
