Modern design in an elderly care centre

The role of sound and light

As we age our hearing is affected by a loss of high-frequency sound. The combination of hearing loss and declining cognitive abilities can be challenging and stressful. Dementia often affects a person´s ability to filter sound and noise-sensitive is common. In busy spaces, elderly people with age-related hearing loss can find it difficult to properly hear and thus understand speech. If the interior consists of hard surfaces such as glass and many types of hard flooring, sound will be reflected around a room. Causing reverberant, exacerbating noise build up and making these spaces uncomfortable to use. Noise can be confusing, affect hearing, reduce concentration and lead to frustration, anxiety, and social isolation.

Tailored acoustics in shared spaces help residents participate in activities by keeping sound levels comfortable. Sound-absorbing ceilings combined with sound-absorbing wall panels improve speech clarity and create a serene environment for everyone.

To create a supportive and comfortable sound environment sound-absorbing ceilings have been used in this building. All the common areas have been acoustically designed and carefully placed sound-absorbing wall panels are used to further improve speech clarity. The sound environment supports social interaction and encourages conversations.

Many elderly residents spend most of their time indoors, often in poor lighting conditions. Biocentric lighting, which mimics natural daylight, supports a healthy circadian rhythm, enhancing mood, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing. Specific lighting settings can make meals more appealing and provide a relaxing atmosphere. Biocentric lighting will support a healthy and natural circadian rhythm. That will not only lead to better sleep and an improved mood but also reduce depression in dementia patients and reduce the number of falls at nighttime.

Promoting wellbeing and comfort

Sound-absorbing materials, and biocentric lighting, not only improve residents' comfort but also reduce stress and anxiety, supporting better communication and interaction. These solutions contribute to a safer, more pleasant environment for residents and staff.

Practical solutions

Sound

Use sound-absorbing ceiling and wall panels to lower noise levels, improve speech clarity and support spoken communication in any room with Ecophon acoustic tiles.

Light

Implement biocentric lighting to mimic daylight, supporting the circadian rhythm and enhancing the dining experience as well as experiencing better sleep, reduced depression, and the number of nighttime falls.

Results

• Enhanced communication and wellbeing
• Lowered stress and improved security
• Better staff performance and satisfaction

By integrating advanced acoustic and lighting solutions, this elderly care centre sets a new standard for comfort and wellbeing, making it a place where residents, staff, and visitors feel at home.