On this page
For further assistance with your assignment, contact Nina Smart, Liaison Librarian for Gerontology at nsmart@sfu.ca at Belzberg Library or Ask a Librarian.
Confession: The GERO 401 course page really hasn't been updated, since there is the newer Topic page:
The built environment is an important factor in older adult’s physical, social and emotional well-being. Their interaction with the environment is affected by their physical capabilities, psychological needs and preferences, and socio-cultural rules. This is a multi-dimensional process that needs to be looked at from different perspectives. This course provides insight into innovative planning and design principles and solutions for older adults who may have physical and/or cognitive frailty. It offers: an overview of person-environment interaction; sensory changes with aging and their influence on environmental experience; architectural design issues in community and supportive housing for older adults.
Note: for more information see the course outline or Canvas page. If there are discrepancies between information listed on this page and that in Canvas or instructor handouts, please refer to the latter.
Useful books
To find books, search SFU online catalogue; search tips are on SFU Library Catalogue Search Guide. Sample subject headings:
- Architecture -- Psychological aspects
- Older People -- Dwellings
- Older People -- Housing
- Universal Design
Useful Web sites and resources
- BC Housing "develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidized housing options across the province", including Home Adaptations for Independence
- Canadian Mortgage and Housing Authority (CMHA)
In particular, check out their page on Accessible and Adaptable Homes - Freedom machines [DVD] - "disability through the lens of assistive technology"
- Institute for Human Centered Design - "lead organization in the international Universal Design movement"
- Resources and Tools (technology and disability) Trace Research & Development Center, University of Wisconsin- Madison