Architecture sculptured for the betterment of the elderly
Date
2021Citation:
Koushaal, J. (2021). Architecture sculptured for the betterment of the elderly. (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec Institute of Technology, New Zealand. https://hdl.handle.net/10652/5539Permanent link to Research Bank record:
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/5539Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION
How can the application of sustainable design practices enhance the quality of life of senior citizens in retirement facilities in Mauritius?
ABSTRACT
This study endeavours to address concerns regarding a dearth of elderly care facilities in Port Louis, Mauritius. In Mauritius, the senior population has increased, owing to better lives and advancements in medical treatment. The growing older population has an immediate effect on current social welfare and health care programmes. Poverty, land leasing disputes and natural catastrophes as a result of climate change are just some of the problems Mauritians face. These factors have impacted family relocations from rural to urban areas in search of work. This urbanisation is also likely to negatively impact rural communities, mainly if older people are left behind without family members to care for them.
This study investigates architectural solutions to the issues encountered by older Mauritians living in metropolitan areas by creating alternate living arrangements for senior people in need of housing and care. The study examined Mauritians' existing conventional living configurations in a multicultural and multiracial society. The architectural method used by modern Mauritians has had an effect on the design result as well. Modern materials and technology were used to guarantee efficient resource usage and a sustainable design that enhanced the necessary level of comfort in the care setting.
To create the architectural proposal, a number of antecedents in connection to various care settings were studied. On the basis of these precedents, an elderly care facility for Port Louis was designed that both represents and honours the local traditions. It enables community living in an urban setting and includes the idea of ageing in place. Overall, the design proposal serves as a model for future advances in elderly care facility design in a multicultural tropical environment and marks a significant step forward in addressing Mauritius's shortage of suitable elderly care facilities.