Upgrading the living Space of the elderly person: towards a healthcare design

Abstract

Drawing on interdisciplinary insights, this article bridges the gap between medicine and design, aiming to revolutionize elderly care through a comprehensive study of their living-spaces and the UX. Medicine was not interested in artistic/design practices. The latter disciplines converge towards the same interest, which is the improvement of the users’ life quality. The study’s objectives are threefold: Firstly, it aims to enhance the quality of life of elderly individuals by investigating their living-space and ensuring their safety, comfort, and well-being. This involves identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes that can contribute to their overall well-being and comfort in their home environment. Secondly, the study seeks to preserve the autonomy of these persons, safeguarding their ability to perform daily tasks independently and finding ways to support and maintain their self-sufficiency within their living-space. Finally, a crucial goal is to prevent or delay institutionalization, such as moving to a senior living community. By optimizing their environment and support systems, the study aims to enable elderly individuals to age in place safely and comfortably, allowing them to maintain their sense of familiarity and independence in their homes. This article presents a collaboration between a geriatrician and a designer. And it proposes the analytical study of an existing living-space of an elderly person to study the UX of his new needs. Based on this analysis and previous scientific research, we will propose a professional-guide to rehabilitation of this user’s living-space, building on a standardized geriatric examination, to maintain his/her autonomy as long as possible.