Modern Aged Care Design

Modern design trends and technology improving outcomes for older people

Modern aged care design is focused on creating comfortable, safe and aesthetically pleasing environments that maximise the wellbeing of older people.

A national focus

Officially coming into effect in July 2024, the new National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines offer a framework for aged care providers to ensure they promote independence, function and enjoyment while delivering high-quality, safe, respectful and dignified care.

 Many aged care facilities and service providers across Australia have already adopted the core principles included in the Guidelines and are putting the needs of older people at the centre of all design considerations. 

Key design principles

The four key design principles that will benefit older people, especially those living with cognitive impairment or dementia, include:

 1.    Enabling the person: Supporting older people to live in a place that maintains their health, wellbeing and sense of identity.

2.    Cultivating a home: Creating a familiar environment in which older people have privacy and control, and feel they belong.

3.    Access to the outdoors: Supporting older people to see, access and spend time outdoors, in contact with nature.

4.    Connecting with community: Encouraging older people to connect with family, friends and community, and continue to participate in meaningful activities.

Technology

Technology is playing an important role in improving aged care by helping to streamline the delivery of care and improve safety. This includes incorporating smart home systems and devices that simplify daily tasks like turning on and off lights and heating, and wearable monitoring devices and smart watches that provide fall and safety alerts as well as reminders for things like when to take medication.

Dementia-friendly design

Creating a dementia-friendly environment is a key trend in modern aged care. This includes things like signage to make it easy for people to find their way around, contrasting colours for improved visibility, and minimised patterns in flooring and décor to reduce confusion. The creation of a home-like environment is also very important for the health and wellbeing of older people with cognitive impairments.

Smaller homes
Another trend is the development of smaller homes or suites for eight to 12 residents that allow for greater independence for those who don’t have high support needs. Alongside a resident’s private room, these facilities have a shared kitchen, dining, living and garden spaces which provide an environment for physical and social interaction.

Above all, the latest trends in aged care design are reflective of an overall shift towards more person-centred aged care that puts respect, dignity, compassion and support at the heart of the services and facilities.

At The Forrest Centre, we pride ourselves on our person-centred approach and we are dedicated to creating environments that best support our aged care residents.