As our population ages, the needs of the elderly are having a greater and greater impact on society at every level. As people age, the homes, workplaces and properties that were once easy to negotiate and maintain can become difficult to maneuver, as age-related disabilities set in. Due to this, we design retirement communities with the specific needs of the proposed community in the forefront of our mind and whether people are living independently or assisted. We study the realities of an elderly person’s limitations to understand what design elements can help meet the needs and enhance their quality of life. We then design beautiful, practical landscapes taking as many opportunities to facilitate social interaction as possible. This includes shared and private spaces, safe pathways, ramps and steps and high-quality plant selection.
