Modern assisted living facilities are very different from the dreary institutions of the past. Whereas strictly functional drab flooring choices were once acceptable, research has shown that healthcare environmental design plays a definite role in the health and well-being of residents. Previously, few suitable products, such as solution-dyed carpet or other moisture-barrier fabrics were available, but now that assisted living residences are expected have a polished residential or hospitality feel rather than an institutional tone, there are many more flooring choices available. The challenge in picking flooring for assisted living facilities is trying to maintain the proper balance: selecting materials that are functional, durable, and safe for residents, while presenting a hospitality aesthetic.
There are many factors to consider when picking assisted living flooring:
Safety
Safety and accessibility are always primary concerns when considering assisted living flooring options. When choosing flooring designs, the choice of pattern or design must take into account sight restrictions that are common in older patients. Wild patterns, whether on carpet or hard flooring, can exacerbate depth perception issues, leading to falls that can be dangerous or even deadly. Carpets with dark borders are also a danger for residents with bad depth perception, since they make it appear that there is a step downward.
Transitions between flooring materials, thicknesses, and finishes need to be addressed in assisted living residences. Because mobility issues can cause many assisted living residents to shuffle, assisted living flooring can pose a tripping hazard if there are differences in height or surface friction. Many facilities use carpet installation in the corridors and broadloom carpet in large gathering rooms to prevent transition hazards from becoming a danger.
Design Color and Patterns
Design choices in any assisted living flooring installation project need to take into account aging issues, especially vision and the special requirements of dementia. As eyes age, colors take on a yellowish cast, so senior design experts suggest viewing colors through yellow lensed-glasses before selecting a design. Many facilities choose products with medium color values and tone-on-tone designs, which may appear monochromatic for those with poor eye sight, yet provide an attractive setting for those with healthier eyes. Soft modern or updated traditional looks with global influences are often considered suitable for senior living, but the entire facility does not have to follow a single motif. Larger patterns or a variety of pattern sizes is considered attractive, as well. Design elements should be used to create a seamless visual interface that will be effortless for residents to navigate.
For assisted living facilities that have residents with memory issues, a soothing environment is the ultimate goal. Contrast between the floor and walls and between flooring materials should be kept to a minimum; patterns, especially organic patterns that can appear to move must be avoided; in short, nothing optically confusing should be used. Vinyl tile is an excellent choice in these facilities, as spills can be easily spilled, reducing possible upset to residents.
Additional Factors
Other considerations to take into account when choosing flooring for assisted living facilities are comfort, durability, and ease of care. Repetitive stresses and strains of walking and standing can be an issue for staff as well as residents, so it is helpful if assisted living flooring solutions can increase underfoot comfort, while standing up to the around-the-clock foot traffic as well as medical equipment, carts, and wheelchairs. Flooring should be easy to care and maintain, and be able to last at least tem years.
If you are interested in updating the flooring in your assisted living facility, the flooring experts at East Coast Flooring & Interiors are here to help. East Coast Flooring & Interiors has performed flooring installations for South Florida’s medical offices, senior living facilities, and hospitals, and we offer a wide selection of high-performance flooring materials ideal for healthcare facilities of all types.
Contact us at East Coast Flooring & Interiors today at 954.321.5721 to learn more about the assisted flooring options available and get our professional free estimate of your assisted living flooring installation.
