Environments for Aging - Fall 2019 - 25

Layout also plays a big part in how easy it is for staff members
to communicate. The easier it is for them to signal for help or see a
problem developing, the more effectively they can work together, which
contributes to a team dynamic that makes the job more rewarding.
Designing spaces with clear lines of sight between critical care areas
allows staff to keep their eyes on multiple spaces at the same time and
track ambulatory residents.
Giving staff members a place to relax away from residents or privately grab some fresh air can also play a role in reducing on-the-job
stress. However, break rooms are often the first thing to fall prey to
value engineering, where items seen as non-contributing to revenue
are cut from a design to save on space, materials, and costs. The truth
is, replacing an employee is costly. Putting more attention into spaces
for staff has an immediate effect on morale and quickly pays for itself in
decreased absenteeism and increased engagement and retention.

Embracing technology
As millennials grow to take on leadership roles and Generation Z enters
the workforce, smart technology will become more expected as a tool
of the trade. Internet-of-Things (IOT) technology has several applications
that can make residential caregivers more efficient. For example, wander
management systems assign wearable devices to residents and staff,
creating a real-time picture of where everyone is within a community. The
devices monitor for falls, track health metrics, give or withhold access to
controlled locations such as back-of-house areas or private units, and
allow residents to call for help when needed. Analytics can be used to
understand incidents without having to rely on a resident's memory.
Other IOT devices automate the day-to-day work of employees.
Residents can use smart speakers to answer simple questions, listen
to music, check in with caregivers, or get medication reminders. Other
devices monitor bedding or garments for moisture, providing a more
dignified way for both staff and residents to deal with incontinence.
Technology can also be used to improve the acoustical environment of a senior living community. Overly amplified sound systems
disrupt communication and are nerve-racking for those who aren't hard
of hearing. Hearing loops to invisibly transmit sound to a resident's
hearing aid or cochlear implant are growing in popularity as a solution,
requiring no additional action or technical knowledge from the resident
while reducing ambient noise in a room and easing communication
between patients and staff.

Design matters
Addressing the staffing crisis in senior living will require developers
and operators to think about how to use design to appeal to a future
generation of employees. By focusing on the employee experience,
designers can create communities that emphasize employee health,
encourage creative collaboration, integrate smart technology, and
encourage a vibrant company culture. A workplace that meets those
goals attracts, engages, and retains employees; offers meaningful
careers; and expands the industry's capacity to respond to the coming
wave of seniors. EFA
Michael D. Rodebaugh, AIA, NCARB, is market sector leader for senior living
at Leo A Daly (West Palm Beach, Fla.). He can be reached at mdrodebaugh@
leoadaly.com.
Fall 2019 * EFAmagazine.com

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Environments for Aging - Fall 2019

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