Preferences of older people in residential design

Aerial view of high rise buildings in Hong KongGuy Luscombe did a great report on his findings from a study tour of residential settings for older people. He found aspects such as natural light were of important to residents. A similar study was undertaken in Hong Kong looking at age, gender, marital status, etc., to see the preferences of older people in residential design

The importance of living in a space you like has ongoing health benefits (or detriments if not). This is a thorough study using qualitative techniques which looks at residents preferences. Differences emerged about windows, but there seemed to be some general agreement about bedroom size. The title of the paper is, Comparison of facilities management in private domestic buildings among different elderly groups in Hong Kong.  Here is the last part of the abstract:

The result shows that satisfaction with natural daylight was significantly different among older people of different genders. However, there was satisfaction with the size of bedrooms, turning spaces at doors, temperature in bathrooms and/or toilets, and use of colour. Accessibility and ease of closing or opening the doors were significantly different among older people belonging to different age groups and of different marital status and education level.

Luscombe recommends designers and private developers increase the sizes of bedrooms, and install windows on opposite sides of walls in flats. Also, ensure there is an adequate light reflection for wall and floor colours.