laboratory of longevity: the role of design and aesthetics in the care of the elderly

The School of Architecture and the Chair Idea of New Longevities of the University of Navarra have carried out the workshopAesthetics of Care: Improving Older Adults Environments through a Multidisciplinary Approach (Aesthetics of Care: Improving Older Adults Environments through a Multidisciplinary Approach approach multidisciplinary "). At meeting, held on November 8, professionals explored how aesthetics and design can improve care environments for older adults.

Experts from institutions such as Harvard UniversityUniversity, the University of Seville and the University of Navarra have participated in the morning in theoretical sessions on topics such as the value of the aesthetics of care, the design of nursing homes, palliative care units, as well as the inclusive design with the elderly or sick in all areas of society. 

The workshop also featured experts on internship in healthcare who shared their experience. In the afternoon, a dynamic of design of Services has helped to integrate the different disciplines in the realization of common projects aimed at improving the daily life of the elderly.

"This laboratory is the closing of a project of research from design of Services focused on eldercare. We believe that the design can facilitate the interdisciplinary conversation and help to ground in practical strategies the value that very diverse perspectives bring," explains Javier Antónprofessor at the Degree at design of the University of Navarra, researcher main project of research and director of the event.

Inspired by philosopher Yuriko Saito'sprograms of study , this workshop seeks to promote the value of aesthetics in care environments in order to enrich daily life through small gestures. Raquel CascalesRaquel Cascales, professor at the University of Navarra and co-organizer of the workshop, assures that when talking about care, the ethical dimension is often taken into account, but in most cases the aesthetic dimension is overlooked. "Paying attention to the way in which care is provided, in which human relationships are established, as well as the interaction with spaces and objects is crucial to improve the experience, well-being and dignity of people," she says.