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environments especially in emergency departments and inpatient hospital settings. Because older patients often have reduced functional abilities, the design of the environment where they seek care is crucial. A well-designed environment can help patients feel at ease, reduce stress and even help them navigate the unfamiliar surroundings with greater confi dence. Aronson suggests there is a need for "silver" architecture and design that will help meet the challenges of the aging population in much the same way that "green" architecture responded to growing concerns over environmental challenges. Many of the best healthcare facilities incorporate solutions that would be the basis of a "silver standard" by combining Evidence-Based Design research, best practices and creative design. Successful environments not only help mitigate the challenges of the elderly patient, but also support a greater sense of well-being. Simple design decisions like providing daylight, especially morning light, has been shown to improve mood and sleep quality and decrease the need for anxiety and sleep medications in older adults (Ulrich, 2008; Gammack, 2005). Introducing moderate degrees of positive stimulation — sound from water or music, colors, light, sculpture, art and other environmental elements — help to foster well-being (Wohlwill, 1968; Berlyne, 1971). 'Silver architecture' checklist With such considerations in mind, a "silver architecture" checklist for designing for the elderly would include: SPACE PLANNING The fi rst and perhaps most important consideration is the organization and layout of the healthcare facility. Design to optimize the ability of clinical staf to provide care and minimize disorientation and anxiety in the elder patient. Create open nurse stations that are clearly defi ned destinations. Open nurse stations provide two-way nurse-patient visibility and allow patients and their elderly companions access without barriers. Minimize walking distances between destinations to ease ambulation for the geriatric patient. It's also best to create large, unobstructed corridors that Nurse stations at this facility have rounded corners to soften the space and reduce injuries for both geriatric and pediatric populations. Indirect lighting reduces glare. ISSUE FOCUS POPULATION PLANNING 16 million Number of Americans aged 65 and older reporting to have at least one disability. This is according to the fi rst Census report (commissioned and funded by the National Institute on Aging) on disabilities among older people. According to research fi ndings published in the Health Environments Research & Design Journal, hospitals embarking on new construction projects may want to consider a blend of private and semi-private rooms for aging patient populations to address individual physiological and safety needs. 34 Medical Construction & Design | M AY/ J U N E 2015 | MCDM AG.COM