Facility design: a "tour" of some current concepts.

Architects, as well as interior and environmental and graphic designers, have an obligation and a responsibility to understand the changes that occur in the aging process and the special needs that arise from them. They must design long-term care facilities that accommodate the needs of aging residents. Facilities need to promote dignity and independence. Careful design planning allows residents to feel that they are at home, instead of in a healthcare institution. The facility should also feel welcoming to visitors ranging from toddlers to elderly relatives.

These principles of modern long-term care design are simple to state. Although they are not simple to achieve, they are becoming increasingly visible in today's construction and renovation projects in both assisted living and skilled nursing. Here are selections (with extended captions) from HKS, Inc.'s portfolio that we hope will illustrate some of these principles in action.

The United States Bureau of Census estimates that by the year 2050, more than 31 million Americans will live to be 85 and over. In fact, a 30% increase in the 85-plus population is projected to occur in the upcoming decade. This means that all of us will at some point (if we don't already) have an elderly relative placed in a long-term care facility, whether assisted living, skilled nursing or both. This involves one of the most critical and difficult decisions we must make. Designers must place themselves in this role to understand the meaning and importance of facility design. We will find the key challenge to be designing flexible, cost-effective facilities that meet the needs of the elderly, so that they can continue to lead the most independent and dignified lives possible.

Jeffrey K. Jensen, AIA, is director, Long-Term Care Facilities, HKS, Inc., an architectural firm based in Dallas, TX. For further information, [phone].