E14 – Wayfinding Performance in Long-Term Care Facilities: The Role of Spatial Configuration
Wayfinding in older adults has been recognized as an essential yet challenging aspect of daily functioning due to age-related cognitive decline. As such, the design of LTC facilities plays a critical role in supporting wayfinding, facilitating essential activities, and promoting residents’ independence. Therefore, this session aims to examine how spatial qualities of LTC facilities can predict residents’ wayfinding performance. Fifteen LTC facilities in the U.S. were selected, and the wayfinding performance of a total of 125 older adult residents was evaluated through predefined navigation tasks of three levels of complexity. The design typology was identified based on corridor structure (linear, branched, and courtyard). In addition to typical route characteristics (i.e., length, turns, floors visited), key spatial metrics of the floor plans were analyzed using Space Syntax methods. Stepwise regression models and Kruskal-Wallis test were used to analyze the relationship between the spatial characteristics of the floor plans, typologies, and route features on wayfinding performance. Findings show that spatial layout impacts wayfinding performance, even when residents’ individual health and cognitive conditions are considered. The LTC facility typology has also played a role in residents’ wayfinding performance. The findings can inform the architectural design of LTC facilities, ultimately enhancing residents’ autonomy and quality of life.
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