Healthy home keeps spring in the elderly's step

Nirwono Joga, Contributor, Jakarta

Establishing a healthy home for the elderly is something that we should plan in the present, considering that a recent report from the World Health Organization estimated the elderly population would see a 414 percent increase to 22.68 million people by 2020.

Many researches have shown that healthy homes play a significant role in keeping the elderly in good condition -- mentally and physically, as most people spend two-thirds of their lives at home.

Unfortunately, there is not many houses with architectural designs that take health factors into account.

Houses for the elderly can be built according to well thought- out designs, remembering to use toxic-free building materials as well as keeping in mind the elderly's limitations -- such as ailments illnesses and deteriorating physical and sometimes mental abilities.

For the elderly, a home is generally akin to paradise on earth, where they will spend the rest of their lives. And living in healthy homes can motivate them to remain productive and active.

Despite space limitations, it is important to ensure the availability of free space -- the house should not cover more than 60 percent of the total plot. Large front- and backyards should also be prioritized to ensure an open environment.

Moreover, the house must be provided with sufficient ventilation, windows, skylights and doors to ensure the circulation of fresh air and penetration of natural light.

Floors and walls should be treated in tune with the interior design, giving the impression that the room is larger than its actual size. Such an impression can also be created by placing a large mirror on the wall.

If the house is located close to a busy road, a noise-free design should be adopted, for example the erection of a walled fence, a low hedge or a lush garden.

Bedrooms for elderly residents should be placed as far from the source of noise as possible, with windows and doors that do not directly face the source. The number of bathrooms and toilets should meet the needs of the elderly, since it will take them extra energy to shuttle back and forth.

Expensive materials are not necessary to make a healthy home look attractive. Bricks, stones or concrete bricks are good wall materials, while extra care must be paid in constructing the wall.

Paint is another important factor in building a healthy home for the elderly.

Cool colors, like greens and blues, will give the impression of quietness or calmness, an atmosphere that will allow residents to relax and unwind. These colors are suitable for the front and back terraces, as well as the study and bedrooms.

Warm colors -- yellows, oranges and reds -- will generate a warm and happy feeling, energizing residents to carry out light activities like exercises, house cleaning and cooking. These colors are good for the living room, dining room, kitchen and bathroom.

Lighter shades of these bright colors and white will lend a soft and warm atmosphere to the home.

Walls along the corridor of the house can also be used to give a homey touch to the surroundings, such as in hanging family photographs, paintings and other decorations that conform to the overall design. These objects will also provide comfort to the residents.

The back terrace might turn out to be the most favorite place for the elderly, since it will be where they meet relatives and close friends. Facing a neatly arranged garden, this terrace can be designed with antique-style wooden furniture, ceramic floors tiled with terracotta and potted plants to create a natural atmosphere.

With a healthy home, the elderly can live comfortably and in good physical and mental health, while remaining active.

-- The writer is a landscape architect.