ABSTRACT
Environmental design is a concept whose definition in geriatrics should be broadened to include not only the architectural features which allow access and provide safety, but also promote health and well-being in subtle and intentional ways. Older adults spend a good deal of time in health care facilities, including doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitative settings. It may seem that such facilities are already designed to do everything possible to enhance health and well-being, given their primary usage, but in fact there are often major deficits in design and usage of such facilities, just as has been pointed out in the home setting. These are just a few of the ways in which the health care practitioner’s message of healthful habits and lifestyle choices could be reinforced and monitored without excessively prolonging the routine office visit.
