E05 - Design that Matters: The Case for Excellence in Affordable Senior Housing

  • Room: W206B
  • Session Number: E05
Sunday, April 16, 2023: 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM

Speaker(s)

Speaker
Amanda Loomis IIDA, NCIDQ, WELL AP
Certified Interior Designer
SWBR Architects
Speaker
Shirah Kasongo Cahill RLA, ASLA, LEED Green Associate
Landscape Architect
SWBR

Description

Affordable housing is a concern for millions. Due to falling incomes after retirement and increased medical costs, the burden is much higher for older adults. The need for affordable senior housing continues to grow and many do not have the resources to age with dignity. This session will take a hard look at the design of interior and exterior spaces in publicly supported senior housing and highlight the potential physical and emotional impacts of thoughtful and intentional design. The findings of a post-occupancy evaluation will be presented to analyze design choices that improve or hinder the quality of life.

HSW

Track(s)

Learning Objectives

• Gain insight into the specific health and wellness challenges faced by low-income seniors in the United States.
• Obtain examples of the tangible benefits to providing a strong relationship between interior and exterior spaces in affordable senior housing.
• Identify cost-conscious design features that promote dignity and independence.
• Acquire tools and best practices to design positively impactful environments for low-income seniors.