Engaging older adults in indoor and outdoor environments

Hours have been spent in research, discussions and negotiations. Funding is confirmed, finally. The architect has drawn the final plans, and the building committee signed off. But one question remains: What will encourage older adults to use the places and spaces so carefully diagramed on paper?

It’s the question that should be the final test of any new building project. The investment in a project is measured by how much the new or remodeled building or landscape feature is used by its intended audience. A beautiful patio or walking trail may appear, but what makes it desirable to go outdoors? A modern and well-equipped fitness center is built, but what moves older adults to use it—frequently? New furniture in a new building may appear, but will that alone inspire social interaction?