How Interior Design can affect your Health
One major component of aging in place is how the environment we live in supports us. Natural light and use of nature or windows have been found to be very helpful in improving our health and wellbeing. It is important to consider our loved ones own capabilities as sometimes chronic conditions may make leaving our homes or even our own room very difficult.
When considering these situations for us, sometimes interior design and home décor can be the bridge for connecting to nature when we are indoors. One growing trend that may be something to consider is called biophilic design or use of natural elements as décor. According to the research of Hung and Chang (2021) they note that biophilic design has been found to improve positive emotions such as pleasure, relaxation, attention, cognitive function, and tranquility. Additionally, biophilic design has been associated with a decrease in stress and even potential decrease blood pressure and heartrate.
With this in mind, using biophilic design would be a potential way to improve wellbeing for ourselves and our loved ones within the home setting. Huntsman and Bulaj (2022) suggest that biophilic interior design could be used for various conditions such as chronic pain, migraine management, and depression. Adding audio sounds such as running water, or other natural sounds can be a way to engage and encompass the feeling of nature.
When considering materials, natural materials are always ideal but not always needed. Artificial grass or greenery, special lighting, and even artificial wood can be used to add elements of nature into a room. Keeping the area safe is always the priority, but making the area feel welcoming and comfortable is also just as important.
Hung, S.-H., & Chang, C.-Y. (2021). Health benefits of evidence-based biophilic-designed environments: A Review. Journal of People, Plants, and Environment, 24(1), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.11628/ksppe.2021.24.1.1
Huntsman, D. D., & Bulaj, G. (2022). Healthy dwelling: Design of biophilic interior environments fostering self-care practices for people living with migraines, chronic pain, and depression. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(4), 2248. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042248
