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The future of senior living: Design to empower older Australians

The future of senior living: Design to empower older Australians

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Based in Brisbane, Dr. Ye Ng is an associate principal at Architectus. Passionate about aged-inclusive and socially inclusive environments, Ng has shaped her career around this vitally important yet often overlooked facet of architecture. Informed by over 15 years of practical experience, as well as her recently completed PhD at the University of Queensland, where she investigated the design and social practices of Indigenous residents in aged care homes in South East Queensland, Ng’s design approach is informed by an understanding of the lived experience of those she is designing for. 

Ng shares her expert insights on the opportunities that lie ahead for the future of senior living exclusively with Australian Design Review. 

Dr. Ye Ng. Image supplied.

Social isolation and loneliness among older Australians are pressing issues that significantly affect their wellbeing. By 2030, older individuals are expected to outnumber younger ones globally, with the most rapid increases in developing countries. Research indicates that older adults face unique challenges shaped by cultural, social, and physical factors, heightening their vulnerability to isolation. These insights underscore the urgent need to address a sense of social connection, particularly in urban settings. There is a growing recognition that the built environment must evolve to foster social connections and encourage community engagement among older Australians through the creation of spaces that combat loneliness and enhance the quality of life.

Rethinking vertical living for older adults

In recent years, vertical housing solutions for older adults have emerged as a response to the growing ageing population. These innovative developments not only make efficient use of land but also enable seniors to remain connected to their established communities. 

An example of this model is Rendu Towers, designed by Architectus Conrad Gargett. Strategically situated in Newstead, just three kilometres from Brisbane’s city centre, Rendu Towers offers excellent access to reliable public transport, including the Brisbane City Ferry and bus network. This prime location facilitates mobility for older adults, enhancing their ability to connect with services and engage in community activities.

Rendu Towers. Photography by Christopher Frederick Jones.

Unlike traditional retirement communities, Rendu Towers features a unique integrated care system that combines retirement living, aged care, and dementia care. This model supports the notion of ageing in place within a community. With a diverse range of unit types equipped with universal design elements, safety modifications, and communal spaces, Rendu Towers fosters a supportive environment that promotes a sense of home and belonging.


Rendu Towers. Photography by Christopher Frederick Jones.

The design also emphasises well-planned connections to local amenities, including parks, dog parks, cafés and retail outlets. These pedestrian-friendly pathways encourage socialisation and active participation in community life, establishing hubs for interaction and support among residents.

The open green space around Rendu Towers. Photography by Christopher Frederick Jones.

Moreover, Rendu Tower offers recreational facilities such as swimming pools, gardens, pavilions, libraries, fitness centres and dining options. These amenities not only encourage social connections but also promote active lifestyles, significantly enhancing residents’ mental wellbeing and social engagement.

The communal roof-top swimming pool at Rendu Towers. Photography by Christopher Frederick Jones.

Evidence-based design has shown that home environments promoting autonomy and offering diverse daily choices help seniors to live more comfortably and safely. Extending these principles to vertical housing for the elderly can further enhance their quality of life by providing social and community connections. Key elements underpinning the success of the vertical retirement living typology for the elderly include:

  • Public transport – proximity to public transport and existing infrastructure keeps seniors active and connected to their community.
  • Sense of community – familiar surroundings and maintaining connections with friends and family offer reassurance and comfort.
  • Retail and leisure – access to retail stores, supermarkets, medical care, entertainment, and civic amenities reduces the need for car travel, encourages social connectivity and provides new opportunities for engagement.
  • Parks and pedestrian networks – walkable access to parks and a pedestrian-friendly street network promote mental wellbeing, outdoor activities and community connections.
  • Health and Recreation facilities – on-site recreational options encourage active, healthy lifestyles.
  • Integrated care – the ability to transition between different levels of care without needing to relocate ensures continuity and stability.

This holistic approach improves both physical health and overall wellbeing for the elderly in vertical retirement living developments

Enhancing navigation in traditional retirement communities

Intuitive wayfinding is an innovative approach that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of traditional retirement communities. Many older adults find conventional layouts confusing, and this leads to feelings of disorientation. By incorporating intuitive wayfinding strategies — such as clear signage, landmarks, and thoughtfully designed interiors — these communities can create user-friendly environments that foster independence and confidence among residents. This transformation not only simplifies navigation but also cultivates a sense of belonging and familiarity.

In a recent post-occupancy evaluation for Bolton Clarke, visual cues like large print signs and recognisable symbols, along with visual connections to key outdoor elements, were found to significantly help residents of varying cognitive abilities. 

Large print signs and layering of the interior at Willowdale. Photography by Chris Wardle.

Natural features such as seasonal gardens also act as orientation points, helping residents navigate their surroundings with greater ease. These enhancements encourage social interaction, as residents are more inclined to explore their environment and engage with peers when navigation is straightforward.

Gardens and intuitive way-finding. Image supplied.

This revitalisation creates a vibrant community atmosphere, fostering deeper connections among residents.

The benefits of intuitive wayfinding extend beyond individual residents, positively impacting the entire community. Families and visitors appreciate well-designed, navigable spaces, which leads to increased engagement in community activities. 

As these environments become more welcoming and accessible, they can attract a broader range of residents, including those who may have previously hesitated to join traditional retirement communities due to accessibility concerns. 

Ultimately, thoughtful wayfinding fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment, elevating the overall quality of life for all residents.

The holistic approach: Community care for seniors

A significant gap in Australia’s healthcare landscape is community-based care models for older adults. 

Day centres play a crucial role in promoting preventive care and healthy living for seniors. These facilities provide supportive environments where they can engage in different activities, access necessary health services, and socialise with peers.

A notable example is the Montefiore Burger Centre in Sydney, a structured environment where seniors can participate in activities tailored to their interests and abilities. From arts and crafts to exercise classes, educational workshops, and even social outings, the program is aimed at stimulating mental and physical health.

Carer leading a group of residents for daily exercises. Image supplied.

Some of the day centres run by the Institute of Urban Indigenous Health provide access to healthcare professionals who monitor participants’ health status, administer medications and offer essential wellness services. This approach addresses immediate health concerns while empowering seniors to take an active role in managing their health.

We’re making progress in this sphere, but the central challenge remains one of governance: how to provide adequate day centre services that meet the growing demand for age-appropriate care and social support. How do we design holistic solutions that foster community engagement, encourage mobility and integrate services like healthcare and recreation into the fabric of everyday life for seniors? We must push for policy frameworks that incentivise the development of these spaces and a comprehensive, forward-thinking approach that prioritises collaboration between policymakers, urban planners, architects and community members. 

Together, we must reimagine and create more age-friendly environments that promote social inclusion, enhance wellbeing and reduce isolation among older adults, creating a future where our elderly are not marginalised but empowered to live with dignity, independence and connection to their communities.

To read more about the importance of design in aged-care contexts, check out this 2021 interview with Hassell’s Gabriella Avenia.

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