LIFE Center strives to keep seniors independent and at home for as long as possible
Several L.I.F.E. Centers (Living Independently For Elders) in Philadelphia provide care and a welcoming home to the aging population. The Alleghany location focuses on Daytime Care for seniors with dementia, as well as a critical care population that needs daytime assistance. The well-designed building includes day rooms for social interaction, medical clinic, personal care areas, as well as an exterior “dementia garden” where seniors can safely enjoy the outside.
In researching lighting strategies for patients with dementia, BEAM tailored the design for this population, while also meeting the budget-driven construction constraints. Suitable lighting for those suffering from dementia and degenerative brain disease is bright but not glary, typically ‘cool’ in color temperature, and providing cues for wayfinding. Through careful design and specification, the lighting successfully meets the required high light levels, stringent energy codes and tight budget.
Within a few months of opening, the staff noticed that the user population is extremely easy to care for and more content than other similar facilities managed by the owners. The owners requested the lighting methods to be utilized in subsequent projects, which is the ultimate statement of success.