Nursing Home Design Guide
2006
compartmentalization in the plan. The
2.3.6 Physiological and
latter may afford an enhanced sense of
Psychological Benefits
privacy in the two bed room prototype.
Interior design for Nursing Home
Two types of noise that disrupt residents
facilities present a wide range of color
include:
problems due to the different needs of
residents, visitors, doctors, nurses and
other staff and the varied nature of
Sound from inside their rooms, such
as a roommate snoring or listening to
specific spaces. The goal is to design a
typical resident environment as a place
a loud television program,
Sound generated from the outside,
where hospitality is the emphasis.
such as carts rolling down the hall.
During design, consider the following:
Loss of balance
2.3.8 Interior Finishes
Cognitive impairment
Visual impairment
Consider the following few key factors in
Hearing impairment
the design process. These
Increased sensitivity to temperature
considerations have an impact on the
and direct sunlight.
built environment and the life cycle costs
of the facility. The factors include:
Physiological and psychological design
considerations include:
Maintenance,
Durability,
Avoiding excessive direct natural
Affordability,
light
Texture,
Providing visual flexibility such as
Therapeutic attributes.
adjustable lighting, blinds and
shades;
Additionally, designers should specify
Introducing stimuli through lighting;
special coatings on fabrics and moisture
Providing natural lighting;
resistant backings. Consider testing all
Using broad horizontal windows
product colors and textures for its
Avoid narrow vertical windows;
perception and psychological impact
Using 20 to 30% of the exterior wall
within the Nursing Home environment.
as window area;
There are various aspects of an aging
Providing views with natural and
population that influence design of
synthetic elements.
interior finishes and furniture selection.
Examples include dementia and
incontinence.
2.3.7 Acoustics/Noise Control
If handled improperly, acoustical design
Creating a `Healing Environment' that
in a Nursing Home facility can affect the
supports health is essential to quality
resident's ability to hear and be heard.
patient care. (See figures 2.18 and
This may also cause the residents social
2.19) Factors that can assist in creating
discomfort, contributing to fear,
this environment include:
embarrassment, depression, or isolation.
Introduce sound absorption materials or
Office of Facilities Management
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