Facility Design
Nursing homes present unique design challenges because they serve as both medical facilities and residences. Because residents may typically spend extended time in a skilled nursing facility, the space must meet their long term needs and ensure their physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. Above all, the future of nursing home design will be person-centered.
As part of our Journey to National Best initiative, NCHCFA will be developing a website devoted to the components of an "ideal" skilled nursing facility and explore alternatives in building designs. This information will be available to designers, architects, contractors, and financiers. We've discovered nursing home design must address this critical combination of elements:
- Privacy security
- A homelike but therapeutic environment with a focus on access and mobility
- Aesthetically pleasing and comfortable décor
- Easy access to resident-use areas and natural landscapes
- Family- and community-friendly design
- Communal dining as well as kitchen access
- Wireless and digital services capabilities
We are already seeing many such projects underway, including plans for replacement of our oldest facilities. New construction, underway or recently completed, has all incorporated newer and more "resident-centered" designs; including such amenities as coffee housed, additional private accommodations, less institutional dining and activity space, etc....
Other Resources
Society for the Advancement of Gerontological Environments
Action Pact - Culture Change consultants and trainers
Whole Building Design Guide - Nursing Homes
IDEAS Institute