Bringing the Comforts of Home to Aged Care

“The Clubhouse Café, at The Botanic – serves as a point of connection for both villagers and their guests.”

Aged care facilities don’t have to compromise on the comforts of home. With thoughtful design and the right furniture, these spaces can feel just as welcoming and cosy as any family home. One of the key elements in achieving this is the focus on social and shared spaces where residents can connect with family and friends.

Creating a homely atmosphere in aged care facilities involves thoughtful design choices that prioritise comfort, warmth and connection. This includes the use of warm colours, soft furnishings, and ample natural light to create an inviting environment. Comfortable seating areas, designed for both social interaction and private reflection, can significantly enhance the residents’ experience.

Social spaces are particularly important in aged care facilities. Findings from ‘The Social Report 2016’ show that 10% of New Zealanders aged 65-74, and 13% of those aged over 75 feel lonely all, most, or some of the time. Investing in the social spaces that serve as the heart of the community, where residents can gather with family members, host visitors, and engage in group activities, builds connection equity. Thoughtful design of these spaces can foster a sense of connection and belonging. For example, incorporating flexible seating arrangements allows for both large family gatherings and more intimate conversations. These spaces should be as much a source of joy and connection for the residents as they are an exciting place for grandchildren to visit for catch ups.“Strong and supportive armchairs and solid timber tables in the beautifully modern social space at The Botanic.”

The integration of nature into the design also plays a crucial role. Access to outdoor spaces, such as gardens and courtyards, provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and natural surroundings. These areas can be designed to be easily accessible and safe for residents with varying levels of mobility. Indoor plants and natural materials can also be used to bring a touch of nature indoors, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

The layout and functionality of the space are critical. Open floor plans that allow for easy navigation, along with strategically placed handrails and non-slip flooring, can help prevent accidents and promote independence. Furniture arrangements can be used to demarcate different zones throughout the open plan, such as areas for socialising, dining, and quiet relaxation. Thoughtful design can also facilitate social interaction among residents, which is important for their mental and emotional health, and building on connection equity.“A warm and inviting atmosphere at Woburn Apartments retirement community.”

Aged care facilities can create environments that not only meet the physical needs of their residents but also enhance their overall quality of life by focusing on comfort, social spaces, and personalisation. These design principles can help transform aged care facilities into welcoming and supportive homes for their residents.

“Furniture designs that are sturdy, robust and supportive, yet still comfortable, stylish and tailored can be difficult to find, but can make an important difference.”