Abstract

Aging is a progressive accumulation of changes in the living human body with time that are associated with susceptibility to disease, excessive physical strain, lack of physical capability with advancing age. Modernisation and development in science and technology have directly and indirectly affected the aged in living independently. It is for the benefit of all age groups to be together so that each will benefit from others, especially the elder and younger generations. Thus it is imperative to include the preferences of aged in the designing of residential spaces for their productive inclusion in the society. The paper discusses on age-friendly residential spaces which supports the aged to improve their quality of life, self-dependence and wellness.

Age-friendly space facilitates health, well-being and creative participation of people, even as they age; and assures accessible, equitable, inclusive, safe, secure, and supportive built forms. Age-friendly approach looks for equal and healthy participation of aged along with the other age groups. Effective planning for aged involves in-depth understanding of their limitations and problems related to the living space and resolving them in Indian context. Problems faced by elderly are related to vision, mobility, audibility, accessibility and thermal comfort apart from psychological, which are to be considered in design. Selection of materials plays an important role in making the spaces age-friendly. Ergonomic designs following appropriate human anthropometry are central to generate effective designs. Psychological issues are to be dealt separately and improving their self-worth calls for societal interactions and participation in decision making.

Keywords: Aging; Age-friendly; Interiors