Cuidando dos nossos anciãos: uma proposta de reforma e adaptação residencial para idosos

Abstract

Faced with advances in science and the cure of several previously fatal diseases, the increasingly accelerated growth of the elderly portion of the population has already established itself as a global phenomenon. These changes in the world age pyramid bring big challenges, which makes it necessary to guarantee a good quality of life for this public. In this context, this paper arises with the objective of thinking about healthy aging through the development of a reform proposal for a single-family residence located in Natal/RN, in order to adapt it to the ideal conditions of accessibility. Its specific objectives were: (1) to understand the profile of the elderly public and their main needs in relation to the principles of Universal Design and accessibility; (2) develop guidelines for architectural and interior projects, in light of important aspects for the elderly and (3) apply these guidelines, developing solutions that provide autonomy and comfort to this public from a real example situation. The result was “Casa-Mangueira”, a 56 m² single-family home full of affection and identity, with every detail designed to provide the user with maximum autonomy and independence.