Date of Award

6-2014

Degree Name

MS in Architecture

Department/Program

Architecture

Advisor

Barry Williams

Abstract

It is difficult to have an integrated population throughout all age strata in a society. Especially if one considers the growing percentage of the aged population and their feeling alienated in their current physical surroundings. In order to solve imminent problems with the growing elderly population, a primary task should be considering how to improve the housing of senior citizens. Furthermore, bringing the youth and elderly together would produce a functioning self-help system. It engenders interaction strategies by employing the strengths of one generation to serve another generation’s needs. This idea was introduced by the systemic family therapist Gerhard Schiele. He indicates that current care facilities, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are not socially sustainable over the long term. This system also fosters a symbiotic relationship within a living complex, where residents and local communities interact in a mutually beneficial living arrangement. An improvement in the design of senior living community, combined with programs that promote a multi-generational interaction, can provide a holistic solution for the entire population. This cross generational solution will focus on the best practice of intergenerational living as it aims to allow all age groups to commingle. The ultimate goal of this study is to show an optimal type of residence within a mixed use building complex that accommodates the aging process with a full life perspective. A focus on age-related issues not only provides great promise for those as they mature, but also greatly improves the quality of life for everyone, regardless of age.

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Architecture Commons

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