Everyone has experienced feeling a chill in the air and instinctively reaching for the thermostat. Sensitivity to heat and cold can worsen in older populations. For this reason, temperature regulation in any assisted living residence in Cornelius, NC, is crucial, both for residents and for building designers.
However, controlling the temperature involves more than just adjusting a thermostat’s dial. Temperature regulation is connected to energy consumption, which is connected to greenhouse gas emissions, environmental effects, and operating expenses.
Fortunately, thoughtful approaches to temperature regulation in senior home settings can lower energy consumption and costs. These techniques can help lower the cost of living for residents who are retired and getting by on supplemental incomes. Most importantly, it can provide a more comfortable environment for residents, leading to a happier and healthier retirement. Here are 3 ways that the ideal room temperature can be achieved in assisted living communities.
Radiant Heating
Air that is blown from a vent when using forced air heating and cooling can result in hot or cold spots throughout a space and much discomfort. For many older adults, especially those who have respiratory sensitivities or asthma, forced air conditioning can trigger their condition by making it easier for allergens and air pollutants to enter a place.
Radiant hydronic flooring is a fantastic alternative. It provides a more consistent heating or cooling effect with uniform distribution, unlike forced air solutions. This type of heating uses water to heat pipes underneath the surface of the floor, eliminating the issue of having hot or cool areas.
Controllability
Older adults benefit greatly from controls that are simple to use, such as programmable thermostats, for conventional heating and cooling systems. Some have large text and automatic options that make them particularly senior citizen-friendly. Some even have voice controls or learn the user’s schedule to adjust automatically, which can be useful for people with mobility issues.
The impact of simply adding programmable thermostats is enormous, regardless of whether a building operator can afford the most current models. When no one is around or there is little activity (such as when sleeping), there is no need to heat or cool a unit, and programming the thermostat is an easy, energy-efficient way to do so.
Window Coverings
Many buildings include outside window coverings or shading, which provide a fantastic approach to passively regulate temperatures without consuming energy for mechanical cooling systems. However, many people, especially older folks, have a tendency to shut the blinds when it gets too bright and never open them again.
Living in darkness can make one feel isolated and even interfere with circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock that primarily regulates biological activities based on light and darkness. Disruptions can have an impact on one’s emotions, sleep habits, alertness, and other bodily functions like digestion.
A great option for older adults in assisted living communities is the incorporation of roller blinds made of view-preserving fabric that reduce heat and glare while also allowing residents to see outside.
Looking for a vibrant and relaxing place to retire, with optimal conditions to suit your needs? Check out our range of floor plans available in our retirement community today!
