Professor Sheila Peace, an expert in environmental gerontology at the OU, has been examining these issues and recently published research which calls for more inclusive kitchen designs in order to allow older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.
Commenting on the need for this research, Sheila (pictured) said: “previous evidence of older people’s experiences of the kitchen have been limited and a better understanding of their views remains critical to ensure that future developments are useful and acceptable to kitchen users in the future.”
Titled ‘Transitions in Kitchen Living’, this multi-disciplinary 'research project part of the Research Councils New Dynamics of Ageing Programme', involved talking to people across a 40 year age span from those in their 60s to those in their 90s. The participants provided their experiences of the kitchen in places they have lived and how that has changed over time. In addition, the study looked at how these age groups currently use their kitchens.
Assessing movement and behaviour
As part of the research, Sheila and The OU team conducted an assessment of movement and behaviour within the modern kitchen and how the spaces are used in collaboration with Loughborough University's Design School.
Participants revealed problems with reaching, bending, hearing, seeing and dexterity in the kitchen. Some of the most common problems reported were difficulties seeing cooker controls and reading packaged food instructions. Also measurement of lighting levels found that food preparation areas were the most poorly lit falling well below recommended minimum levels.
“There are lots of issues which need more attention and which ultimately can meet the needs of everyone and not just older people” Sheila enthuses. “For example not having to open windows across a sink; having more appropriate colour of surface and lighting and work surfaces which are height adjustable are just some of the things that could make kitchen life easier. Unfortunately, people generally don’t know about gadgets that can help them with their situation.”
Age-friendly kitchens
The research team has now developed a shorter guide based on the research which Sheila is currently sharing with a whole range of people including kitchen designers, planners, manufacturers and installers to provide age friendly kitchens in the future. The research is already influencing certain projects such as kitchen designs in a supported housing project.
Outlining her hopes for the impact of the research Sheila said: “the meaning of home and staying at home is very important for people and therefore we are hoping that these recommendations will go some way to getting the retail and design sector to sit up and take these on board. An easier solution for people in their 80s is actually and easier solution for everybody.”
For more information about Sheila Peace's research, see here.
Posted 15 March 2013
