Senior Living’s Post-COVID Comeback: How Great Design Attracts New Residents
What will seniors really want in a community moving forward? Consider these design features to attract prospects and boost move-ins post-pandemic.
Make no mistake, seniors want to be safe, but they won’t be motivated by fear in the months and years ahead. They want wellness, health, and quality of life. They’ve learned the same lessons as the rest of us during the pandemic, and these can provide some insights into what design elements they’ll be seeking post-COVID:
Isolation can be psychologically, emotionally, and physically damaging. People need to be connected and engaged; and they want a purpose in life. This means large, walkable communities of buildings organized around shared amenities such as club houses, coffee shops, and community centers.
It is important to have transportation options. In recent months, public transit has not always been available or safe. Many seniors want to have their own cars, and this means ample and convenient parking. They also may want bicycles or even scooters, so you need to have easy storage options for these modes of transportation. For public transportation, have frequent stops with covered benches and easy access to bathrooms.
Getting out during a pandemic can be challenging. As we’ve been encouraged to stay inside, it’s sometimes challenging to get needed supplies and groceries. Onsite shopping and multiple dining options will attract residents who want safety and convenience. The idea that residents can get basics, such as milk, eggs, coffee, and pet food when they can’t get out for whatever reasons is appealing. Consider pop-up shops for specialty items, for instance, a Saturday farmer’s market with local vendors and/or a technology fair. During this pandemic, imagine how convenient it would be to have a tent with masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and other supplies for sale.
We need our family and friends. Perhaps the hardest part of the pandemic for many people has been being cut-off from loved ones. Having outlets, ports, and reliable bandwidth in each unit, as well as extras like wall-mounted high-definition televisions, will give residents the security of knowing they’ll be able to connect with families and friends if they can’t get together in person. A unit in each building reserved for family members (that they can rent for a day or a week) will enable greater personal connections, particularly with loved ones who live far away.
Our personal space is important. Consider ways to offer some flexibility in housing. For instance, have units of different sizes next to each other with a wall that can be removed. This will enable seniors to buy two units if they want more space for themselves, caregivers, or visitors.
A variety of spaces for socialization is important. Think about having an array of options for safe socialization. For instance, you can have a lounge that opens directly onto a patio or other open space; a rooftop café or patio; and small individual yards and balconies or a community deck for each building.
Exercise is essential to staying happy and healthy. Have safe, comfortable, well-maintained, and well-lit trails, paths, and sidewalks. Consider providing community yoga or exercise classes via Zoom or closed-circuit television. More exercise rooms that enable socially distant workouts also will be popular.
The pandemic has taught us all about what is important to be healthy and healthy, and seniors will want communities with amenities that will keep them safe, comfortable, and engaged no matter what is happening in the world around them. At Pi we are happy to help you design communities that seniors will love next month, next year, and 10 years down the road. We can help design the features seniors want in your next community! Contact us at (512)231-1910 and ask for Business Development.
