This research addresses the pressing question: ‘How can the architectural design of elderly independent living facilities enhance well-being by promoting social connections amongst the elderly?‘. The aim is to generate guiding principles for socially connected independent living facilities, specifically targetting elderly suffering from social isolation seeking an alternative to aging at home. This research identifies a crucial gap between aging at home and relocating to a care facility, emphasizing the need for a new option. This intermediary option aims to provide elderly individuals with the opportunity to age independently in an ideal living environment with the possibility to foster social connections that further enhance their well-being.
The methodology employs a hybrid approach, combining top-down and bottom-up methodologies. The top-down component extracts archetypal principles primarily from literature and case studies, providing universal design guidelines. Simultaneously, the bottom up aspect centers on understanding the unique needs of the elderly through primary research, ensuring a responsive and context-specific.
The resulting design guidelines are organized across various scales, addressing the intricate needs of the elderly and fostering well-being. The study not only contributes to architectural endeavours but also addresses societal challenges associated with an ageing demographic. In a world predominantly focused on environmental challenges, this research emphasizes the urgency of addressing societal issues, particularly the challenges associated with an aging demographic.
The scope of the study is delineated by a theoretical framework integrating key theories from architectural design, well-being, social connection, and elderly wants/needs. These theories collectively guide the research’s ambition, providing a comprehensive foundation for the proposed design guidelines.
In conclusion, the study culminates in 16 Design guidelines meticulously organized across dwelling, communal space, building program, and site conditions. These guidelines offer a nuanced and multi-faceted approach to architectural design, addressing the intricate needs of the elderly, fostering well-being, and alleviating loneliness. The proposed guidelines serve as a holistic blueprint for architects, ensuring the creation of socially connected and well-supported environments for the elderly in response to the challenges posed by the aging population and the identified gap in existing options.