Spatial quality of old age homes: Built and open

environment

KASHISH
ENROLMENT NO. 02017601619
YEAR: 2019-2024

RESEARCH PAPER GUIDE: AR. SAIMA SHAKIL

RESEARCH PAPER CO ORDINATORS

AR.AKASH SHARMA & AR.BINITA TAMBOLI

Submission No :02

Date of Submission : 29th March,2023

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
VASTU KALA ACADEMY
9/1 QUTAB INSTITUTIONAL AREA, ARUNA ASAF ALI MARG

NEW DELHI – 110067

 College of Architecture Vastukala Academy : Research Paper 2020-21

SPATIAL QUALITY OF OLD AGE HOMES: BUILT AND

OPEN ENVIRONMENT
Abstract: Old age homes are residential facilities that provide specialized care
and services to older adults who require assistance with daily living. The physical
environment of these homes plays a critical role in the well-being of its residents.
It has been observed that physical illnesses, mental illnesses and adjustment
problems are quite common among the elderly.

The theme at this age is loss, which can be identified as loss of physical abilities,
loss of intellectual processes, loss of professional role and professional identity
(retirement), loss of intimate relationships, such as the death spouse, friend and
depression of other people and acquaintances. The World Health Organization
(2005) also points out that depression is the fourth most common disorder and can
lead to physical, emotional, social and economic problems. A study showed that
depression can range from 34.6% to 77.5% in old-age homes.

The topic of spatial quality in old age homes refers to the physical design and
layout of these facilities and how it impacts the quality of life, health outcomes,
and safety of its residents. Thus, the physical environment of old age homes can
be designed to promote the well-being and health of older adults.

Keywords: Old age home; Spatial quality; Healing spaces; Physical space

Aim:

To study characteristics of a physical space that affect people's experiences based on the
spatial quality of different old age homes.

Research question(s):

1. What is old age home and current demographics?

2. What is spatial quality and how it different for elderly population?
3. How does spatial quality of open and built spaces impact on the residents of old age home?

Objectives:

• To study the origin and need of old age homes

• To understand the Psychology of elderly people and their behaviour towards different spaces
• To determine the factors which affect spatial quality in old age homes
• To compare different old age home in similar climate based on various factor
Need of the study:

The physical environment of an old age home has a significant impact on the quality of life
of its residents. By studying spatial quality, one can determine how the physical
environment can be designed to support well- being and improve resident’s experience. The
physical environment of an old age home can also impact the health outcomes of its
residents. For example, poor lighting and poor ventilation can lead to respiratory health
problems in elderly people. By studying spatial quality of old age home, it can be
determining how physical environment can be designed to meet the need of older adults.
Older people may have reduced mobility or cognitive impairment, which can increase their
risk of falls or accidents. The study can also determine what all spaces (open and built) are
beneficial for elderly people and how different spaces can promote the well–being of elderly
people.

Limitation of study:

• The study is limited to Delhi

• There is not enough data available on old age home in Delhi
• Limited access to the old age homes
• Limited time for research

Introduction

The phenomenon of population ageing exists all over the world. We say phenomenal
because all the age pyramids are inverted, which means that birth rates have steadily
declined over the years while life expectancies have increased. As a result, the elderly
population is growing faster than children.

An old age home is a place for the elderly to live when they cannot be alone or with their
children or sometimes when they need it. Most of the time, older people cannot be alone as
they can become dependent on others and need care and attention to stay healthy. Old age is
an inevitable part of a person's life, and the necessary care and affection from family may
not always be available.

Spatial quality refers to the perceived characteristics of a physical space that affect people's
experiences within it. It can encompass a wide range of factors, including the dimensions,
layout, lighting, color, texture, acoustics, and overall ambiance of a space. Spatial quality
can influence how people feel, behave, and perform in a given space. A well-designed and
high-quality space can promote relaxation, creativity, and productivity, while a poorly
designed and low-quality space can cause stress, discomfort, and distraction.

Different type of spaces is required for elderly people to promote social interaction and their
well-being. They generally have free time and it is important for them to feel comfortable
and Happy in their environment also to perform certain activities during the period. So, it is
important for Spaces to increase interaction between them also improve their quality of life.