Page 44 - Bernardon_Housing for Aging_SOQ 08.2023

Implement Surfaces that Can be Easily Cleaned Incorporate Technology into the Design
Following the Covid-19 outbreak, studies were conducted on the To reinforce the effectiveness of the design approaches
transmitting virus, known as SARS-CoV-2. One study focused on mentioned above, we suggest incorporating technology to
how long SARS-CoV-2 can last on surfaces ranging from plastic to enhance communication between staff and residents. To abet
stainless steel to wood. According to Healthline.com, the studies the unpredictability of rapidly spreading infectious disease,
reported that the virus can last on these various surfaces from telecommunications can serve as a vital part to the design:
24 hours up to 7 days. While surfaces can’t simply be eliminated,
we suggest incorporating surfaces and adaptations that promote ■ Telehealth – Investigate possible telehealth
easy cleaning: connections throughout the community to improve
general information and specific consultation within
■ Surfaces – Incorporate surfaces which can be easily the resident unit.
cleaned and often without damage to the finish.
■ Installation – Utilize spare routing and power sources
■ Out-of-Reach Areas – Limit out-of-reach horizontal for installation of telehealth equipment.
surfaces which can harbor dust and germs.
At the early stages of designing a husing for aging community,
■ Proper Cleaning – Include cleaning areas in the considering these approaches – especially in response to a
building design where mobile carts can be periodically widespread pandemic – will help foster a safer environment for
cleaned to limit the spread of germs.
both the residents and staff. Incorporating responsive design
while still creating a residential environment that feels like
Design to Enhance Personal Protection home might just be the best design defense for housing for

When it comes to responsive design in the wake of an outbreak, aging communities. No matter how much isolation infectious
creating space sometimes isn’t always enough. Personal protective disease prevention may require, coming together to create a
equipment (PPE) is a vital need, and while we as designers can’t safe and healthy environment will help to provide seniors with a
provide the physical PPE necessary, we can create environments comfortable, engaging living community to enjoy.
that support its use and effectiveness. Equipping communities
with these measures will ensure the safety of both staff and
residents:

■ Entryway Assessments – Design areas for gathering
health assessment information at entry points.

■ PPE Stations – Create Personal Protection Equipment
stations for staff to use; these stations should be
easily accessible so that they can be refilled in a timely
manner.

■ Hand-washing Stations – Position hand washing/
hand sanitation stations within the neighborhood for
staff.

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