FUNCTIONAL INTERIORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS 4(2+2)

Lesson 31 : Design Criteria for Nursing Homes

Introduction

Nursing homes are residences for people who need skilled nursing care. Nursing homes are also called skilled nursing facilities. All nursing homes are licensed by the Department of Public Health. Nursing homes provide shelter, meals, social activities, and assistance with activities of daily living, as well as 24-hour skilled nursing and rehabilitative services. Some nursing homes have special sections for people with specific conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

A nursing home operates primarily in a patient-care mode rather than a medical mode. Consequently, its more important attributes are those focusing on the general well-being of its residents rather than high-tech considerations. Nursing homes in particular started as offshoots of medical facilities and many retain that appearance. So the entrance plays a large role in first and lasting impressions. Here are easy steps to make it more welcoming.

• Have clearly marked signage that identifies the entrance.
• Create reserved parking for visitors.
• Have wheel-chair accessible curbs and ramps that are easily identifiable.
• Create landscaping that is colorful and inviting.
• Decorate for the season.
• Install decorative but functional solar lighting.
• Create comfortable seating areas.

The principal attributes of a well designed nursing home are: