Written by Chao-Feng Lai
In response to the challenges posed by an aging population and declining birth rates, Taiwan has adopted a strategy of "aging in place," aiming to enable senior citizens to enjoy their later years independently within their familiar environments. Furthermore, with the advent of smart technology, various innovations have been introduced to cater to the needs of the elderly in their homes.
This semester, as part of their coursework, senior students from the Smart Design program participated in the "Elderly-Friendly Smart Space Design" course. This course integrates principles of spatial design with the pressing long-term care needs in Taiwan and underscores the significance of human-centered design. Students learned how to utilize technology to enhance the intelligence of spaces, catering to the requirements of the elderly. They engaged in discussions on the application of smart home technologies, accessible design, and eco-friendly materials to create improved long-term care environments.
Students who elected to take this course a local day care centers in Wufeng: the "Chang Chi Care Association Wufeng Comprehensive Long-Term Care Institution on October 16. During the visit, students gained profound insights into the operations of day care centers for the elderly and the demands of long-term care. They observed that the elderly require safe, warm, and compassionate environments while also yearning for diverse activities and social interactions. These firsthand experiences lent substantial support to the students' academic learning, offering them a deeper understanding of how to apply design principles to real-world spaces.
Students interact with the seniors at the Chang Chi Care Association Wufeng Comprehensive Long-Term Care Institution
