Assisted Living Services, Inc. welcomed two classes (24 students) from the University of New Haven who are majoring in interior design. We provided the students with information on the topic of “Interior Design Considerations for Aging-in-Place.” I gave an overview of demographic changes in Connecticut. For example, the fact that the group of Connecticut residents over 65 is expected to increase by 40% in the next 15 years.
Additionally, I provided information on the Money Follows the Person Program, whereby federal grant money will be used to rebalance the long-term care system. The goals being to give individuals freedom of choice where they live and receive services, as well reduce cost of care. The largest piece of this program is to effectively transition older adults and people with disabilities from nursing homes to community based settings. An overview of the Connecticut Homecare Program for Elders was also provided to demonstrate the opposite effect of spending money wisely by promoting care to the frail at-risk elderly so they don’t end up in nursing homes.
Then I provided information on the physiological changes that occur with the aging process, such as changes in vision, tactile senses and balance, hearing, taste, and congnition – all with some examples of what interior designers should examine when evaluating a home where a senior prefers to “age-in-place.”
Tom Daly, MS, Director of Live-in Services provided some very detailed information by basically taking students through the home of a senior – from front landing, to kitchen, bathroom, living areas, bedroom etc., and discussed general concepts related to design as they relate to care issues. He gave examples such as using contrasting colors to help identify light switches, and type of flooring most appropriate if there were a hoyer lift being used for transfers. Tom has many years of experience in rehabilitation and occupational therapy services.
Brian Luckhardt, from our sister company Assisted Living Technologies, Inc. provided an overview of some of the advanced technologies available to create “smart homes.” He explained the use of Wi/Fi Remote Monitoring Systems and how they can help promote a safe environment and even help to identify problems with seniors early before they lead to emergencies. Brian then showed each class how Personal Emergency Response Systems, Automated Medication Dispensers, and GPS Personal Locators worked to enhance safety with seniors living at home.
University of New Haven course instructor Christy Somerville gave us feedback that our presentations were “just what the students needed” and I’m hoping we get an “A” grade for this community effort;-)
