REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES EASTERN VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND ALLIED DISCIPLINES TACLOBAN CITY

DES 415 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN VII COMMUNITY AND URBAN ARCHITECTURE

RESEARCH NO: 02

HOME FOR THE ELEDERS

SUBMITTED BY: MELVIN S. PILLEJERA BSAR 4A STUDENT

SUBMITTED TO: ARCH. DAINNE ANGELYNNE LIM-SO, UAP INSTRUCTOR

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TOPICS PAGE

CLASSIFICATION OF RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What to Look for in Aging-In-Place Home Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Improving Home Safety for Seniors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Designing homes for the elderly based on the anthropometry of older Malaysians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wheelchair Housing Design Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General Needs Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

INTRODUCTION As the city grows, the population grows, and the number of aged people increases too. The need for home for the aged increase in demand. Tacloban City is one of the developing cities in Philippines. It has a numerous number of aged people as I observed. Very aged people generally cannot serve themselves and need some assistance. Home for the aged is one solution for this problem. Home for the aged is also allowing the older people to live independently through the design of the house. Ramps, handrails, non-skid floors, wheelchair based access, these are just some of the considerations that home for the ages requires. Special facilities should be provided for the oldies who want to live independently to lessen their workload. I, as a designer of Home for the elders researched about this topic. I included the types or classification of the home for the elders, space requirements, standard design of wheelchair house, the anthropometrics, and other relevant studies regarding this demand. These surely will help me in designing the home for the elders.

CLASSIFICATION OF RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY

2.1 Classification of Homes Residential facilities are provided for aged people who, for personal, social, health or other reasons, can no longer live alone or with their families. According to the level of care and assistance required by the residents and the type prescribed for the purpose of Section 8(4)(c) of the Residential Care Homes (Elderly Persons) Ordinance, a residential care home for the elderly may be classified as : (a) a care-and-attention home; or (b) an aged home; or (c) a self-care hostel. 2.2 Definition of Types of Homes Under Section 3 of the Residential Care Homes (Elderly Persons) Regulation: (a) A care-and-attention home means an establishment providing residential care, supervision and guidance for persons who have attained the age of 60 years and who are generally weak in health and are suffering from a functional disability to the extent that they require personal care and attention in the course of daily living activities but do not require a high degree of professional medical or nursing care. (b) An aged home means an establishment providing residential care, supervision and guidance for persons who have attained the age of 60 years and who are capable of observing personal hygiene but have a degree of difficulty in performing household duties related to cleaning, cooking, laundering, shopping and other domestic tasks. (c) A self-care hostel means an establishment providing residential care, supervision and guidance for persons who have attained the age of 60 years and who are capable of observing personal hygiene and performing household duties related to cleaning, cooking, laundering, shopping and other domestic tasks. 2.3 Classification of Mixed Homes 2.3.1 Some residential care homes for the elderly provide more than one class of care for their residents. For example, some aged homes are established with care-and-attention units. Likewise, some aged homes also provide self-care hostel places. 2.3.2 In classifying a mixed home (namely, homes with care-and-attention cum aged home places, homes with care-and-attention cum self-care places, homes with aged home cum selfcare places, homes with care-and-attention cum aged home cum self-care places), the majority rule will apply. For example, a home with care-and-attention cum aged home places with over 50% of its residents being in need of care-and-attention care is classified as a care-and attention home. In case of equal distribution of places in the two sections, e.g. 50% care-and-

attention places and 50% aged home places, the home will be classified as the one that requires a higher level of care (i.e. a care-and attention home in this case). This is to ensure that the well-being of the residents are protected. 2.3.3 In a home with three types of care (namely, care-and-attention care, aged home care and hostel care), a modified majority rule will apply. Such a home will only be classified as either a care-and-attention home or aged home, it would not be appropriate to classify such a home as a self-care hostel, irrespective of the number of self-care places. This is to ensure that elderly residents receive a proper level of care. In classifying such a home, the number of aged home places in the home will first be added to the number of self-care places. This total will then be compared with the number of care and- attention places. The home will be classified as either a care-and attention home or an aged home according to the majority rule. The principle of universal design aims to create a built environment that is accessible for as much of the population as possible, and for as much of their lives as possible. It is partially rooted in design for handicapped individuals; one of the grandfathers of universal design, Selwyn Goldsmith, was the first to create a dropped curb for wheelchairs. However, universal design principles also support those who would like to age in place. Universally designed multi-generational house plans are gaining popularity because todays long life expectancy means more of us will be around longer, and we often have living parents even when we are old ourselves Rather than designing a home for different stages in your life, such as drafting house plans for seniors separately from house plans for young couples, todays designers attempt to accommodate all stages and possible changes in lifestyle in the same design. With this approach, retirement house plans may also be perfect for younger generations and can prevent you from having to move home later on. A few thoughtful features throughout the home create universal access for all individuals. Those who select multi-generational house plans enjoy a few additional benefits. First, if you have a universally designed home, the functional spaces of the house are able to adapt with your changing lifestyle, so you can stay in your home longer. (Few among us actually look forward to the prospect of entering a live-in nursing facility.) Moreover, multi-generational home designs fetch an increased price on the housing market because more and more people want their homes to incorporate space for extended family, which may not be available in universal retirement house plans. Universal design is also universally appealing, it seems. The icing on the cake is that multi-generational house plans are also eco-friendly, since their design will be relevant for longer, meaning there will be less need for remodeling, or moving. If youd like your house plans to double as house plans for seniors, consider the following list of age-in-place design elements.

What to Look for in Aging-In-Place Home Plans

Single-level designs.
Walking up and down stairs becomes challenging as a person ages ever try to go up a set of stairs using a walker? and its impossible for those in wheelchairs. If a multi-story design is required, the home should include an elevator.

Wheelchair access throughout especially in the bathrooms.

Showers shouldnt have a curb, and walk-in tubs are best suited for the aged. Additionally, all transitional spaces must be wide enough to accommodate wheelchair movement. Ideally, all open spaces should be at least 60 inches by 60 inches; this is the area needed for turning. Corridors should be as wide as possible at least 40 inches, unobstructed. Finally, a seat in the shower is a blessing for the elderly but also useful for shaving legs.

Pull-out and pull-down shelving.

Deep shelving units are especially difficult for older people to use. And really, pull-out cabinet shelves save hassle for people of all ages.

Multi-level counters.
Placing countertops at a variety of heights allows more people to work efficiently and comfortably.

Remote-control blinds and windows.

This is a thoughtful feature for house plans for seniors.

Slip resistance.
Falling is a serious concern for the elderly. A multi-generational home should include slipresistant surfaces as well as grab bars in the shower and anywhere else spills are likely to occur.

Twist-free faucets and lever door handles.

Retirement house plans should not include any features that are difficult for those with arthritis to operate.

Open floor plan.

A combined kitchen/dining/living area is generally easier for those in wheelchairs to navigate. Fewer twisting halls mean more room to maneuver, and furniture can be rearranged throughout your life. Additionally, open floor plans allow people to monitor their environment using lines of sight rather than their sense of hearing. (Remember, thats something else that tends to decrease as we age.)

No more than 5 pounds of force needed.

Strength tends to wane as people grow old. To accommodate this, designers of multigenerational house plans ensure that everything in the home is functional with fewer than five pounds of force.

Bright, functional lighting.

While a young person may find reading in the twilight a romantic task, this would be torturous (or just plan impossible) for a senior. Retirement house plans should include excellent daylight and task lighting so no matter what detail-oriented task a person is doing, bright light is always available.

Flat-panel light switches.

These are generally easier to operate than the narrower toggle variety. The best thing about universal design is that it makes the basic tasks of life easier for all people. To ensure that the floor plans youre considering are good house plans for seniors, check to see if they meet the American National Standard, ANSI A117.1 sometimes referred to as the ADA standards. Going forward, retirement house plans will probably be encompassed in the Design for All (DfA) movement, which like Universal Design seeks to create products and built environments that are useable by all individuals, regardless of disability or age.

Improving Home Safety for Seniors

Make sure front and back doors have strong dead bolt locks. Post emergency numbers and your address by each telephone and add to your cell phone. Set the thermostat of the water heater at 120 degrees F or lower to prevent accidental scalding. Keep a lamp or flashlight and telephone within reach of your bed. Make sure handrails are sturdy and securely fastened.

Our homes fulfill many needs. The most basic is protection from the elements and intruders. Once we are warm and secure, other needs arise. Comfort and a place for self-expression are vital for our well-being. A home gives a feeling of independence. It also provides access to important community services. For the maturing population, housing is especially important. It serves as a storehouse of memories, provides the major location for family interaction, and is the major financial asset for most families. The 65-plus population will be radically transformed as the baby-boom generation ages. No segment of the population will change as much as mature Americans. There are currently 40 million people (13% of Americans) aged 65 or older. By 2050 this will increase to 88 million. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the housing needs of the elderly.

Shelter and Protection

We must feel safe and secure in order to be able to relax, so be security conscious. Front and back doors should have strong dead bolt locks. If possible, install a burglar alarm system. Excellent security systems are now available at relatively low costs. A peephole for all your outside doors is a good idea so you can see who is at the door before you open it. Make sure it is at the proper height for you. It should let you see a range of 180 degrees from side to side.

Comfort and Self-Expression

Not only should your home offer physical comfort, but it should provide emotional comfort as well. Surround yourself with things you like.

Safety
Home accidents are a major source of injuries and can even cause death. The elderly are especially vulnerable to serious injuries from home accidents. Older bones are often less dense, more brittle and break more easily. A simple fall can become a serious, disabling injury that limits independence. As we age, our senses of sight, touch, hearing and smell tend to decline. Our physical abilities are reduced, making it more difficult to stretch, lift and bend. Our judgment and reaction time also slow. As a result, we cannot respond as quickly as when we were younger. These normal changes in perception, physical abilities and judgment make us more prone to accidents. Simple precautions and adjustments can help ensure a safe, accident-free home. The following checklists will help you evaluate the safety of your home and habits. Go through your home and check off those items or behaviors that apply to you. If there are some items that you do not check, then your home is not as safe as it could be. By improving those items, you can make your home a safer and more comfortable place to live.

General Safety

Emergency numbers and your address are posted by each telephone. The telephone can be reached from the floor or you carry a cell phone with you. Inside and outside door handles and locks are easy to operate. Door handles are lever-action instead of round knobs. Door thresholds have been removed or are low and beveled. Windows are easily opened from the inside but have secure locks that can prevent someone from entering from the outside. There is an emergency exit. You can add an escape route through portable ladders or chutes.

The thermostat of the water heater is set at 120 degrees F or lower to prevent accidental scalding. Medications are stored in a safe place according to instructions on the label of the package or container. Carpeting and rugs are not worn or torn. Small, loose rugs have nonskid backing and are not placed in traffic areas. Appliances, lamps and cords are clean and in good condition. There are no exposed bulbs in lamps or fixtures that can cause glare. Automated lighting controls are installed. All electrical equipment bears the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. Enough outlets are located where they are needed in every room. Electrical overload protection is provided by circuit breakers, fuses or ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). The electrical service has enough capacity and is up to code. (An electrical inspector can check the wiring in your house.) Extension cords do not carry more than their proper load, as indicated on the cord or appliance. Electrical cords are placed out of the traffic flow and are not underneath rugs and furniture. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and in working order. (One idea to help you remember to change the batteries is to replace them on your birthday.) Assistive listening devices are used for small room amplification, personal listening and TV listening.

Kitchen

The range and sink areas are well lighted. If you have a gas range, it is equipped with pilot lights and an automatic cut-off in the event of flame failure. (Your local utility service can check this for you.) The range is not located under a window with curtains that might fall onto a burner. If you have an exhaust hood for the oven, it has easily removable filters for proper cleaning. Clean filters as needed. The kitchen exhaust system is internally vented, discharges directly outside, or discharges through ducts to the outside and not into the attic or other unused space. Countertop space and height is ample to keep carrying and lifting to a minimum. Work surfaces are not shiny or glaring. Countertops are adjustable. There is enough countertop lighting for meal preparation. Cabinet shelving is replaced with drawers or pull-out components. Kitchen wall cabinets are not too high to be easily reached. The light switch is located near the door. Oven controls are clearly marked and easily grasped. Oven controls are located on the front or side of the oven. The kitchen sink has a single-lever mixing faucet.

Flooring is safe and nonslip. When cooking, you turn pan handles away from other burners and the edge of the range. When cooking, you avoid wearing garments with long, loose sleeves. Hot pads and pan holders are kept near the range. The exhaust fan is turned on when using the range. If you have a microwave oven, operate it only when there is food in it. Use potholders to avoid burns. Small appliances are unplugged when not in use. Knives are kept in a knife rack or drawer. Counter tops and work areas are cleared of all unnecessary objects. Drawers and cupboards are kept closed. You use a sturdy, stable stepladder or stepstool rather than a chair to reach objects in overhead cabinets. You wipe up grease or liquid spills at once.

Stairways and Halls

Foyer has a nonslip entrance. Steps are in good condition and are free of objects. Steps have nonskid strips or their carpeting is securely fastened and free of fraying or holes. There are smoke detectors in hallways and near sleeping areas. Hallways are equipped with night-lights. Sturdy handrails are on both sides of stairways and are securely fastened. Light switches are located at the top and bottom of stairways and at both ends of long hallways. Inside doors do not swing out over stair steps. There is enough overhead space in the stairway to avoid bumping your head. Room entrances do not have raised door thresholds. It is easy to see the leading edge or nosing of each stair tread while walking down stairs. (Use tape of contrasting color if not.) Stairways and hallways are well lighted.

Living Room

Electrical cords are placed along walls, not under rugs, and away from traffic areas. Chairs and couches are sturdy and secure. Chairs and couches are not too low or too deep to get in and out of easily. Chairs and couches have full arms to aid in sitting or rising. The light switch is located near the entrance. There is enough space to walk through the room, leaving clear passageways for traffic. Furniture that might be used for support when walking or rising is steady and does not tilt.

Bathroom

The bathtub or shower has a nonskid mat or strips on the standing area. Bathtub or shower doors are glazed with safety glass or plastic. Grab bars are installed on the walls by the bathtub and toilet. Shower has a hand-held showerhead with flexible hose. The towel bars and the soap dish in the shower stall are made of durable materials and are firmly installed. The shower or tub has a single-lever, antiscald mixing faucet. Bathroom flooring is matte-finished, textured tile or low pile commercial carpet (not throw rugs or bathmats). The bathroom has even lighting without glare. The light switch is located near the door. The bathroom door opens outward. The bathroom has a safe, supplemental heat source and ventilation system. The outlets are ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) that protect against electric shock. A night-light is available. If needed, an accessible shower or tub can be installed.

Bedroom

You keep a lamp or flashlight within reach of your bed. Periodically check the batteries. A night-light is used to brighten the way to the bathroom at night. You have plenty of room to walk around the bed. You have an adequate-sized nightstand or small table for the telephone, or cell phone, glasses and other important items. There is a sturdy chair with arms where you can sit to dress. The bedroom has wall-to-wall, low-pile carpeting or a smooth-surface floor covering. You use a bedroom on the first floor of the home if necessary.

Outdoor Area

Steps and walkways are in good condition. Handrails are sturdy and securely fastened. Doorways, steps, porches and walkways have good lighting. Porches, balconies, terraces, window wells and other heights or depressions are protected by railings, closed with banisters, closed with fences, closed with accordion gates, or are otherwise protected. Hedges, trees or shrubs do not hide the view of the street from the driveway. Security lighting is installed outside the house. Garage doors are easy to operate, even when snow is piled against them. The garage is adequately ventilated.

Designing homes for the elderly based on the anthropometry of older Malaysians
The door dimensions included the height, width (opening) and position of the peephole and the handle (Figure 7). The minimum door height should comply with the stature anthropometry of the 95th percentile male (72.60 cm). The door width should be the elbow span of the 95th percentile male (97.4 cm). A lever-type doorknob should be positioned at the elbow height of the 5th percentile female (81.60 cm). The peephole height should be at the standing eye height of the 50th percentile female (137.2 cm). The simulation and RULA results for door design are shown in Figure 8. The minimum windowsill height should be at the sitting eye height, measured from the floor, of the 5th percentile female (93 cm). The maximum height should be at the standing eye height of the 95th percentile male (159 cm); therefore a range of 93 to 159 cm is sufficient for window viewing. The window controller/handle should be positioned at the standing shoulder height of the 5th percentile female (111.9 cm). The window design and simulation are shown in Figures 9 and 10. Switches and outlets should be positioned within the reach of shorter persons (Figure 11). The switch height should be at the standing shoulder height of the 5th percentile female (112 cm). Electrical outlets should be within reach of older persons while standing; excessive bending must be avoided. A suitable height should comply with the knuckle height anthropometry dimension of the 95th percentile male (78.10 cm). The simulation and RULA results for switch and outlet designs are shown in Figures 12 and 13. The lavatory dimensions included hand basin, water faucet and mirror heights (Figure 14). The and basin rim height should be 10 cm below the standing elbow height of the 5th percentile female (71.60 cm). A single-lever water faucet should be used, as it requires less force to operate. It should be located around 5 cm above the basin rim height (76.6 cm). The optimum water source height is the standing elbow height of the 5th percentile female (81.6 cm). The horizontal distance between the basin rim and water faucet should be around the forearm hand length of the 5th percentile female (38.30 cm). Use of a shorter horizontal distance prevents excessive stretching. The mirror should be placed above the hand basin for viewing and its positioning should accommodate both shorter females and taller males (i.e. a range of 82 to 173 cm). The minimum clearance in front of the lavatory area should accommodate the stooping space of the 95th percentile male, which is equal to the sitting height (88.75 cm). The simulation and RULA results for the lavatory design are shown in Figure 15. The toilet area included a toilet bowl, handrails and tissue holder (Figure 16). The toilet seat height should be the same height as the chair seat height, which is set at the sitting popliteal height of the 5th percentile female (34 cm). The flush control should be accessible during sitting and at the sitting shoulder height of the 5th percentile female. The water hose should be located on the right-hand side and the single-lever water control should be at the sitting elbow height of the 5th percentile female (44.42 cm, or 10.42 cm above the seat height). The maximum horizontal distance can be calculated using Pythagoras theorem (Figure 17). The horizontal handrail in the toilet area is useful for support during sitting. Its height should be

around the sitting elbow height of the 5th percentile female (44.42 cm). The diameter of the horizontal handrail and the gap between it and the vertical wall should be 3.81 cm.9 The height of the tissue holder should be about the same height as the horizontal handrail (44.42 cm). The vertical handrail is useful for standing up after toilet use. Its height should be within the minimum sitting to maximum standing shoulder height (i.e. 77 to 143 cm). The diameter of the vertical handrail and the gap between it and the vertical wall should also be 3.81 cm.9 The simulation and RULA results for the toilet design are shown in Figure 18. Many accidents occur in the bathroom. Bathroom design based on the anthropometric measurement of older Malaysians is shown in Figures 19 and 20. The minimum width for the shower area should cover the elbowroom needed by the 95th percentile male (97.5 cm). The optimum height for the fixed showerhead should be high enough to accommodate the 95th percentile male stature height including clearance (173+10=183 cm). An adjustable showerhead should be within the range of both the sitting height of the 5th percentile female and the stature height with clearance of the 95th percentile male (i.e. 80.51 to 183 cm). A single water controller should be located in line with the showerhead and its height should be at the standing elbow height of the 5th percentile female (81.60 cm). The vertical handrail should be placed in the shower area for balancing while bathing, with the minimum height at the elbow height of the 5th percentile female and the maximum height at the shoulder height of the 95th percentile male (i.e. 82 to 143 cm). The horizontal handrail height should be at the knuckle height of the 95th percentile male (78.10 cm). The optional seat in the shower area should be the popliteal height of the 5th percentile female (34 cm), with a seat width of the 95th percentile female sitting hip breadth (40 cm), and a seat depth of the 95th percentile female buttock popliteal length (38 cm). Temporary storage for toiletries should be located at the shoulder height of the 5th percentile female (112 cm). The soap dish should be within the reach of shorter persons, at the elbow height of the 5th percentile female (81.6 cm). The simulation and RULA results for the bathroom design are shown in Figure 21. The handrails or grab bars are used for support during walking. They should be located inside and outside the building (e.g. corridor, pathway). Their height should be about the standing knuckle height of the 95th percentile male (78.10 cm, Figure 22). The diameter of the horizontal handrail and the gap between it and the vertical wall should be 3.81 cm.9 The simulation and RULA results for the handrail design are shown in Figure 23. Since we cannot avoid elderlies to use wheelchairs, I included this wheelchair housing design standards in my research.

Wheelchair Housing Design Standards

1.0 Additional design standards are applicable; the minimum standards of any special design standards for Wheelchair Housing that must be applied are shown below. 2.0 Access

In-curtilage or designated car parking space should be capable of enlargement to 3.6m The distance from any car-parking space to the home should be kept to the minimum and be level or gently sloping (max 1:20). The approach to all main entrances should be level or gently sloping (max 1:20). Further detail noted in Lifetime Homes Criteria. Main entrances covered, illuminated and with a level area (1200 x 1200mm) and a flush threshold provided outside all external doors. Main paths to be 1200mm wide with firm even surface. Ramped areas must have handrail and safety edges both sides. Carports, where provided, must be linked to dwellings.

3.0 Inside the Home

External and internal door clear opening width to be 800mm minimum. At least 825 mm required when door approached at right angles from an access route. The doorway dimensions for wheelchair housing to have at least 300mm clear space at the leading edge of the door. No door saddles to internal doors. Door handles and locks fitted at appropriate height, i.e. 900mm-1000mm. Area inside the main entrance door to allow for 1800mm diameter wheelchair turning circle and also incorporate a 1100 x 700mm minimum wheelchair storage space (unless provided elsewhere) and ensure adequate ventilation in rooms where battery operated equipment is charged. Corridors or secondary entrance halls to be at least 1200 mm wide. Corridor lengths to be kept to a minimum but if longer corridors are necessary there may be occasions where an additional 1800mm diameter wheelchair turning circle may be required. Wheelchair accessible rooms to be located at the dwelling entrance level and provide for wheelchair turning circle (1800mm diameter). Living rooms to be not narrower than 3200mm wide with sufficient space for wheelchair transfer unto an easy chair. Balconies (where appropriate) to have level access approach and incorporate an 1800mm diameter wheelchair turning circle. Door swing not to obstruct general approach (consider sliding doors).

4.0 Wheelchair Housing - Kitchen Design Standards

Kitchen units need to be designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind for both wheelchair and ambulant use.

Kitchens designed for wheelchair use to include a split-level cooker with a built-in hob and waist level oven together with a fridge (on plinth) and kitchen fittings accessible from a wheelchair. Oven doors must be side hung to aid access. The underside of sink bowls and exposed hobs should be thermally insulated. Wheelchair maneuverability (1800 mm turning circle) and at least 1350 mm clear space in front of appliances/drawers/cupboards. Flexibility in design/layout and robustness/durability of fittings and equipment. Knee access beneath worktops in food preparation areas and next to fixed units/appliances. Trolley space or portable storage cabinet under worktop. Dining space in or in close proximity to kitchen to reduce travel distance. Ensure all appliances and controls are within reach. Arrange uninterrupted worktop, cooker worktop, and sink, worktop arrangement in a U or L shape. Ensure opening windows above worktop are fitted with remote winder type handles. Slip resistant floor covering. Heights of shelves above worktop; refer to current edition of BS8300. Additional spaces for tumble drier (if not provided elsewhere) and dishwasher. Pan storage drawer, pull-out worktop adjacent to oven and food preparation area, carousel corner units, wire basket drawers with telescopic runners, adjustable worktop over washing machine space. Locate sockets and cooker controls on walls above worktops with switches on plinths at the front. Tiling behind worktops to allow for height adjustment.

5.0 Wheelchair Housing Fixtures and Fittings

Window glazing in main habitable rooms should begin at 800mm from floor level or lower to allow wheelchair users to see out. Windows should be easy to open /operate and may occasionally require fitting of remote winder type handles. Controls/ switches/ sockets should be placed at a height between 600mm and 1200mm from floor level with light switches at 1000mm. Controls, meters, thermostats etc used by tenants should be visible, accessible and within easy reach preferably located in high use rooms and/or circulation areas. Provide fully automatic heating system and controls.

6.0 Wheelchair Housing Bathroom Design

Walls in bathrooms and toilets to be capable of taking grab rails. Doors to bathrooms and WCs for wheelchair use to be outward opening and fitted with locks that can be opened from the outside

Showers for disabled/wheelchair use to be level access shower tray and be fitted with thermostatic controls. (Routinely 1400 X 900mm shower area is required). Bath for wheelchair use, flat-bottomed with a slip resistant base and robust to take HSC Trust equipment. The bathroom layout designed to incorporate ease of access, and use of the fittings. WC position allows for unobstructed frontal, oblique or lateral transfer from the wheelchair. Consider ease for handing the WC position to provide both left-handed and right-handed transfer options. The design to provide for a reasonable route (preferably direct access) for a potential ceiling mounted hoist from a main bedroom to the bathroom taking account of door / lintel / track configuration. Ensure ceiling is designed sufficiently strong to support track for hoist.

7.0 Wheelchair Housing - Bedroom Design

Bedroom provision in wheelchair housing to be planned for wheelchair use and access as appropriate to the household make-up. For example, a family household where one of the parents is a wheelchair user should have a single level dwelling with wheelchair accessibility to every room. However a child who is a wheelchair user may be accommodated in a bedroom usable from a wheelchair on the dwelling entrance level of a large family 2-storey unit. In this case a bathroom and another bedroom usable from a wheelchair (preferably the main bedroom) must also be provided at the dwelling entrance level to facilitate night time supervision and care. The bedrooms for the other family members can then be located on a different floor level that is not necessarily wheelchair accessible. 1 bedroom wheelchair dwellings to have the main bedroom usable from a wheelchair. 2 bedroom and larger wheelchair dwellings to have the main bedroom and another bedroom usable from a wheelchair. Any other bedroom on the same floor level to facilitate approach and entrance to the room by the wheelchair user. Bedrooms usable from a wheelchair to provide for wheelchair turning circle (1800mm diameter). A clear space of at least 1800 mm to be allowed for the assisted transfer from a wheelchair onto the bed. At least 800 mm to be allowed for carers on nontransfer side of the bed. A clear space of at least 1350 mm to be allowed to approach, reverse and pull out drawers or wardrobe doors. At least 1000mm to be allowed to approach furniture with knee spaces suitable for wheelchair use. Clear space of not less than 800mm to be provided at base of bed for wheelchair circulation

8.0 Wheelchair Housing Storage

Storage capable of being accessed from a wheelchair should preferably be located off the main corridor / entrance hall. One larger general/linen store is preferable to smaller separate stores. Washing machine and tumble drier could be located in the store (if not provided elsewhere). Consideration should be given to sliding / bi-fold doors.

5.0 General Needs Housing

5.1 Generally 5.1.1 General Needs Housing applies to general family housing and dwellings for singles and couples. The accommodation is normally provided in self contained bungalow, house, flat or maisonette form. Singles may however be accommodated in shared dwelling form. The TCI Area/Cost bands applicable to self-contained and shared General Needs accommodation are described in the detail in the General Needs Housing TCI Area/ Cost Bands Applicable in Table 1 below. The background information and the detail of calculation of grant is contained under 5.1.2 The Design Standards are predicated upon new build General Needs dwellings as this is the majority of the provision that is funded DSD. In addition to the space standards in Table 1 the design standards that must be adhered to in relation to General Needs dwellings are covered in the specific sections as follows: Internal environment Lifetime Homes Energy and Sustainability Security Layout and external environment 5.1.3 The General Needs design standards apply to other new build provision where the accommodation to be provided is similar to that of General Needs in all aspects other than categorisation (see 4.1 above). However some of the categories or types of accommodation, other than General Needs housing, require additional specific and supplementary design features and standards over and above the core General Needs standards. Guidance on these additional standards which apply to Wheelchair Housing, Elderly Housing and Supported Housing are included elsewhere in the Design Standards at Sections 6.0, 7.0 and 8.0 and Annexes A to C. The TCI Area/Cost Bands applicable and any special design features for these accommodation types are also included.

5.1.4 Shared accommodation is accommodation predominantly for single persons, which includes a degree of sharing between tenants of some facilities (e.g., kitchen, bathrooms, living room) and may include an element of support and/or additional communal facilities. 5.1.5 Bungalow & Single Storey Provision - associations should note that with effect from 1 April 2007 restrictions apply to bungalow and single storey development in social housing provision. Generally, residential building land is in short supply and expensive. As bungalow/single storey provision is wasteful in terms of land use required compared to other forms of development it will only be grant-aided in very exceptional circumstances, e.g. where the Association can demonstrate that an alternative design solution would not be appropriate for the need or where specific planning restrictions apply. 5.1.6 In designing Apartments associations should pay particular attention to the provision of adequate storage, drying space and balcony / terrace private space. Associations should contain the cost of providing these facilities within the relevant TCI. 5.1.7 There is also a general need to optimise housing density in all schemes in order to maximise the potential of the site and to ensure that schemes represent value for money. They should be economical, efficient and sustainable. For further information on density see paragraph 3.0 Planning and Housing Density.

7.0 Elderly Housing

7.1 Categories of Accommodation for the Elderly There are four categories of accommodation for the elderly including:

Category 1 - self-contained accommodation for the more active elderly, which may include an element of scheme supervisor support and/or additional communal facilities. Category 2 - scheme supervisor supported self-contained accommodation for the less active elderly, which includes the full range of communal facilities. Category 3 supported extra care accommodation for the frail elderly. Includes the full range of communal facilities, plus additional special features, including wheelchair user environments and supportive management. Category 4 - scheme supervisor supported shared accommodation for the less active elderly with full range of communal facilities.

7.2 Housing Mix for Self-Contained Accommodation for the Elderly 7.2.1 In schemes specifically designed for the elderly DPG will accept a housing mix for self-contained Category 1 and Category 2 accommodation within the following parameters:

7.2.2 Category 1 (bungalows and flats): subject to no more than 25% of all flats or bungalows being 2-person/2-bedroom units, Category 1 units may be provided as:

1-person/1-bedroom bungalow or flat (35/40 sq m floor area band); 2-person/1-bedroom bungalow or flat (50/55 sq m floor area band); 2-person/2-bedroom bungalow or flat (55/60 sq m floor area band); and/or 3-person/2-bedroom bungalow or flat (60/65) sq m floor area band).

Note: 3-person/2-bedroom bungalow or flat provision will not attract the supplementary multiplier for common room and or associated communal facilities. 7.2.3 Category 2 Flats (and Category 1 flats where a resident or non-resident warden is linked directly to the scheme): subject to no more than 25% of all flats being 2-person/2bedroom units, Category 2 units may be provided as:

1-person/1-bedroom bungalow or flat (35/40 sq m floor area band); 2-person/1-bedroom bungalow or flat (50/55 sq m floor area band); and/or 2-person/2-bedroom bungalow or flat (55/60).

Note: This housing mix would also include small (Category 2) type schemes where a block of up to 15 flats may be provided to full Category 2 requirements including common room and associated communal facilities, but with the exception that a resident scheme supervisor need not be provided. However, a part-time resident or non-resident supervisor must be linked directly to the scheme. Note: the scheme being linked to a central emergency alarm facility would not satisfy the requirement for a part-time, non-resident scheme supervisor. Associations should proceed on the basis of the above parameters. Where an Association wishes to modify the above criteria a detailed case must be made to the NIHE DPG at the earliest possible opportunity. 7.2.4 Category 3 (bungalows or flats): where a self-contained model is chosen to accommodate this client group then subject to no more than 25% of all flats or bungalows being 2 Person/2 bedroom units, Category 3 units may be provided as:

1 Person/1 Bedroom bungalow or flat (40/45 sq m area band); 2 Person/1 bedroom bungalow or flat (55/60 sq m area band); 2 Person/2 bedroom bungalow or flat (60/65 sq m area band)

All units should be designed to full wheelchair standards.

7.3 Elderly (Category 1 and Category 2) Housing is specially designed accommodation and comprises:

Category 1*self-contained bungalow or flat accommodation for the active elderly, which may include an element of warden support. Category 2*warden supported self-contained flats for the less active elderly and includes the full range of communal facilities.

Note*: Category 1 and Category 2 bungalows and flats can also be enhanced to meet wheelchair housing requirements where required. 7.4 The TCI Area/Cost Bands applicable to Elderly (Category 1 and Category 2) Housing self-contained and shared Supported Housing accommodation are noted in Table 5: 7.5 Specific Elderly Housing Design Standards (Category 1 and Category 2) are included in Annex B.

Annex B - Specific Elderly Housing Design Standards

1.0 Specific Elderly Housing Design Standards Applicable (Category 1 and Category 2) 1.1 Additional design standards are applicable; the minimum standards of any special design standards for Elderly Housing that must be applied are shown below 1.2 Wardens Accommodation

A self-contained General Needs dwelling should be provided.

1.3 Common Room

A heated, furnished common room or rooms (2m2/person) should be provided for use by tenants, together with a conveniently located, wheelchair accessible WC with washbasin. Suitable floor coverings, curtains, seating and tables should be provided. An adjacent chair store (2m2 minimum) should be provided. An adjacent tea kitchen with a sink and hot water facility should be provided.

1.4 Associated Communal Facilities

Laundry Room should be incorporated with at least one sink, washing machine and tumble dryer, also a table or bench for folding clothes. Guest Room should be provided, heated and furnished of double bedroom size and situated near a communal toilet or en suite facilities provided. Emergency Alarm System provided connecting each dwelling with the warden in case of emergency. A transfer facility should be incorporated for use when the warden is absent. Office for the wardens use should be provided close to the main entrance. Wheelchair accessible via heated and enclosed circulation where appropriate. Note: Communal facilities are optional for Category 1, and mandatory for Category 2. 2.0 Elderly Housing (Category 1 & Category 2) Accessibility Criteria 2.1 Elderly Housing (Category 1 & Category 2) Accessibility Criteria is summarized in Table 7:

3.0 Inside the Home 3.1 Design standards in relation to Elderly Housing (Category 1 & Category 2) Door and Corridor Widths are summarised in Table 8:

Supported Housing (Accessible Criteria) the above criteria will normally suffice for this type of housing, but may need to take account of special space and facility requirements need by some tenants, including multi-wheelchair user environments.

6.0 Wheelchair Housing

6.1 Standard Wheelchair Housing is provided and designed to aid independent living by people with a physical disability and wheelchair users who need a wheelchair for day to day mobility and require the larger areas and circulation areas afforded by this accommodation type. Standard wheelchair housing is normally provided in self-contained bungalow or flat (ground floor flat or flat served with a lift) form, but can also be provided in suitable selfcontained house or shared housing form. Where full wheelchair provision is incorporated on the ground floor in 2-storey housing, the first floor level does not need to be designed for wheelchair use or access. Where such accommodation is incorporated within schemes containing communal facilities, these facilities must be wheelchair accessible. 6.2 Specific Wheelchair Housing Design Standards are included in Annex A. 6.3 Where Wheelchair Housing is for known specific tenants, it is essential that particular needs are identified at the outset in association with the Community Occupational Therapist. This will help to ensure that current and future needs and appropriate design and care standards are considered in meeting those needs. Early liaison will help to determine the bespoke approaches that are required. 6.4 The TCI Area/Cost Bands applicable to self-contained wheelchair accommodation are noted in Table 4:

6.5 Wheelchair Housing-Additional Good Practice Recommendations (a) In larger family units a separate kitchen area is preferable. Some wheelchair users find open plan living and kitchen areas more convenient due to the reduction in the number of doors to negotiate. However, open plan arrangements need to have regard for, and where possible mitigate against noise from appliances and kitchen odors. (b) Consideration should be given to radiator free dwellings to assist with wheelchair circulation.

CONCLUSION
Elderly people should be provided with living environments with specifically designed facilities appropriate for their physical and cognitive strengths, capabilities and limitations, and to match their body dimensions. A properly designed living environment increases the comfort, safety and health of the elderly. To come up with a good design, designer must know the standard anthropometrics of the oldies, main objective is the comfortability of the user, the wheelchair user, the traffic flows, oldies cannot walk long distances, the provision of ramps, the relation of the inside environment to the outside, and other considerations that relevant to the design of this type of occupancy. Some of the considerations in home for the elderly design plan are listed below:
Single-level designs. Wheelchair access throughout especially in the bathrooms. Pull-out and pull-down shelving. Multi-level counters. Remote-control blinds and windows. Slip resistance. Twist-free faucets and lever door handles. Open floor plan. No more than 5 pounds of force needed. Bright, functional lighting. Flat-panel light switches.

We all know that elderlies has lesser capability than younger, we should consider this list in the design for the oldies. These considerations can apply any type or classification of elderly homes.