Page 37 - Bernardon Senior Living Portfolio
P. 37
Implement Surfaces that Can be Easily Cleaned Incorporate Technology into the Design
Following the Covid-19 outbreak, studies were To reinforce the effectiveness of the design approaches
conducted on the transmitting virus, known as mentioned above, we suggest incorporating
SARS-CoV-2. One study focused on how long SARS- technology to enhance communication between staff
CoV-2 can last on surfaces ranging from plastic to and residents. To abet the unpredictability of rapidly
stainless steel to wood. According to Healthline. spreading infectious disease, telecommunications
com, the studies reported that the virus can last on can serve as a vital part to the design:
these various surfaces from 24 hours up to 7 days.
While surfaces can’t simply be eliminated, we suggest ■ Telehealth – Investigate possible telehealth
incorporating surfaces and adaptations that promote connections throughout the community to
easy cleaning: improve general information and specific
consultation within the resident unit.
■ Surfaces – Incorporate surfaces which can be ■ Installation – Utilize spare routing and
easily cleaned and often without damage to power sources for installation of telehealth
the finish.
equipment.
■ Out-of-Reach Areas – Limit out-of-reach
horizontal surfaces which can harbor dust At the early stages of designing a senior living
and germs. community, considering these approaches – especially
in response to a widespread pandemic – will help
■ Proper Cleaning – Include cleaning areas in foster a safer environment for both the residents
the building design where mobile carts can and staff. Incorporating responsive design while still
be periodically cleaned to limit the spread of creating a residential environment that feels like
germs.
home might just be the best design defense for senior
Design to Enhance Personal Protection living communities. No matter how much isolation
When it comes to responsive design in the wake of infectious disease prevention may require, coming
together to create a safe and healthy environment will
an outbreak, creating space sometimes isn’t always help to provide seniors with a comfortable, engaging
enough. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a living community to enjoy.
vital need, and while we as designers can’t provide the
physical PPE necessary, we can create environments If you’re interested in discussing solutions for your
that support its use and effectiveness. Equipping senior living community, contact one of our designers
communities with these measures will ensure the at architects@bernardon.com.
safety of both staff and residents:
■ Entryway Assessments – Design areas for
gathering health assessment information at
entry points.
Equipment stations for staff to use; these DREAM.
■ PPE Stations – Create Personal Protection
stations should be easily accessible so that
they can be refilled in a timely manner. DESIGN.
■ Handwashing Stations – Position hand
washing/hand sanitation stations within the SUCCEED.
neighborhood for staff.
BERNARDON | Designing Safer Spaces for Senior Living Communities Page 3
