Daejin Kim

Home modification is essential in helping older adults age in place safely and independently. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of housing location and disability status on home modification projects among older adults using the 2019 American Housing Survey Data. The study found that recent home modification strategies were significantly different according to older adults’ housing locations and health status. Older adults in non-metropolitan areas and with disability were less likely to make home modifications, and when they did so, they spent less money on the modifications. The findings highlight the importance of providing adequate home modification programs and resources for home modifications, as well as support and education from community organizations, particularly for older adults in non-metropolitan areas. The results of this study can assist in developing housing policies and guidelines to address these current and future challenges in home modification implementation for the aging population.

Aim: The main purpose of this research is to understand the wayfinding experience of older adults with dementia in long-term care facilities and identifying environmental design elements that support older adults’ spatial abilities. Background: Wayfinding problems are the earliest symptoms of dementia, and older adults with cognitive impairment are more likely to get lost in the community and consequences cause psychological responses such as insecurity, agitation, and falling in their environment. Method: The research used data collected from 30 caregivers of two long-term care facilities in the Midwest through a survey and interview on their perceptions of wayfinding design elements. Results: The research findings highlighted on caregivers’ perception on wayfinding experience of older adults with dementia. The findings show a significant difference between importance and satisfaction on floor pattern and visibility in the facilities. Study indicated that glass partitions in the middle of the hall and corridor can create visual obstruction for older adults and barrier for staff as well to keep visual track on them. The qualitative study revealed that different colored doors for individual patient room in a memory care enhance older adults’ wayfinding abilities. In addition, in case of multisensory stimuli, noise and smell can improve their wayfinding abilities as well. Conclusion: The conclusion of the study highlights the importance of understanding the design elements that can be effective in creating a safer environment for older adults with dementia.