IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

The populations of most countries are undergoing a shift toward aging. Within the context of Albania, as the youth immigration trend has grown and the family structure has changed, the demand for designing retirement homes to accomplish elderly population needs has increased, necessitating immediate action. Hence, the aim of this study is to investigate the physical challenges that elderly people face in a retirement home in Tirana, Albania, due to inadequate indoor environments, focusing on mitigating cognitive impairments and promoting their wellbeing. Employing qualitative methods, primarily a checklist is developed and applied based on a comprehensive review of relevant literature related to the retirement home design and cognitive functions of elderly people. Then, observations and questionnaires were conducted among 81 elderly residents, in order to assess their challenges and needs regarding their perception of the living environment. The findings of this study reveal the physical challenges faced by the elderly residents related to cognitive functions, involving lack of slip-free flooring and grab bars excluding the staircase area, insufficient wayfinding signages, biophilic features, comfortable furniture, natural lighting and common areas, and poor ventilation. Further, the outcomes highlight preferences for self-controlling lighting, contrasting colors, less beds per room and more and larger indoor spaces. Addressing these challenges can lead to designing inclusive experiences in retirement homes. This study finally concludes with design guidelines for enhancing cognitive functions and promoting wellbeing of elderly residents in the retirement homes in Albania and beyond.