Senior-friendly architecture – how to design flats and housing estates with the needs of older people in mind

1. Step-Free Zones and Wide Passageways
   • No thresholds – eliminating thresholds and steps (including between the bathroom and hallway) makes movement easier, especially with a walker or wheelchair.
   • Door width – minimum 90 cm (36 inches) to ensure comfortable access for people using mobility aids (walker, wheelchair).
   • Maneuvering space – leave at least 150×150 cm (60×60 inches) of free space around furniture and sanitary fixtures to allow wheelchair or walker turning.
2. Ergonomic Solutions in the Kitchen and Bathroom
   1. Kitchen
      • Countertops at different heights – a standard worktop at 85 cm (34 inches) and a lower section at 70 cm (28 inches) for seated users.
      • Deep drawers instead of wall cabinets – easy access without the need to reach high.
      • Shallow shelves – to avoid excessive bending or stretching.
   2. Bathroom
      • Grab bars and handrails – next to the toilet, in the shower cabin, and by the sink.
      • Walk-in shower base or linear drain – makes entry easier.
      • Shower chair and foldable shelf – allows washing in a seated position.
      • Sink with open space underneath – for wheelchair users or seated individuals.
3. Lighting and Color Contrast
   • Good general lighting – ceiling fixtures with even, diffused light.
   • Task lighting – lights above the kitchen countertop, by the bed, and above the bathroom mirror.
   • Motion-sensor lights – dusk-activated lamps in hallways and entry areas.
   • Contrasts – clear color differentiation between floors, walls, and thresholds improves orientation and prevents tripping.
4. User-Friendly Materials and Finishes
   • Anti-slip surfaces – tiles and flooring with a high friction coefficient, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
   • Soft carpeting – in living areas, as it cushions potential falls.
   • Smooth, easy-to-clean coatings – washable paints and damage-resistant surfaces.
5. Accessibility of the Estate and Surroundings
   • Barrier-free access routes – ramps instead of stairs at building entrances, handrails along slopes.
   • Benches along walkways – every 50–100 m (160–330 feet) to allow rest during walks.
   • Outdoor lighting – focused lights along paths and at building entrances.
   • Green relaxation areas – flat pathways, covered gazebos, vegetable gardens, or sensory trails.
6. Assistive Technologies
   • Emergency and call systems – SOS buttons in the bathroom and next to the bed, connected to caregivers or reception.
   • Smart lighting – adjustable lighting scenes controlled by voice or remote.
   • Fall detection and monitoring sensors – discreet devices that notify caregivers in case of danger.

Summary

Senior-friendly architecture combines functionality with aesthetics, eliminating barriers and supporting residents’ independence. Through simple measures – from step-free transitions and ergonomic bathrooms to high-contrast finishes – it is possible to create a safe and comfortable environment for people of all ages. Investing in such solutions not only shows care for older generations but also adds long-term value to any property.