Colorado-Real-Estate-Journal_352916

July 2023 — Health Care, Senior & Life Sciences Quarterly — Page 17 www.crej.com A n essential part of building a community is designing spaces that allow people to connect. One way to priori- tize connection is by creat- ing third places – places beyond the walls of home (first place) and work (second place) that lend themselves to effortless and random encoun- ters between residents and visitors, like coffee shops or dog parks. Third places create somewhere to escape to without being alone, bring vital- ity to a community and allow for the unexpected to happen. They have the power to shape commu- nity, inviting in people from differ- ent walks of life and encouraging them to meet. As a society, we rely on third places and the interactions they spark to feel socially con- nected, to bring us joy in meeting someone new, and to remind us that we are more alike than we are different. Though third places bring tremen- dous value to all types of housing and demographics, they are par- ticularly pertinent for older adults who are considering moving from their single-family homes to senior living communities. According to a 2020 report from the National Acad- emies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered socially iso- lated. Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isola- tion due to factors such as living alone and the loss of family and friends. Integrating third places into the design of senior living communities creates opportuni- ties for effortless connection, allow- ing residents to share experiences that reflect their personal interests with others who enjoy them as well. This not only leads to improved quality of life and health but encourages residents to stay long-term. When exploring the types of spaces that foster ran- dom and meaningful connections, it is important to not only consider experiences between residents, but the surrounding community as well. n Provide experiences. As older adults move into a new chapter of life and are no longer bound by routine responsibilities like caring for children or going to work, they are eager to enjoy their newfound flexibility, chase their sense of adventure, and try new activities with new people. They are looking to live in communities that provide opportunities for impromptu con- nection, from dropping into the painting studio on a weekday after- noon to spreading out a blanket at a Friday night concert on the green. When designing amenity spaces to function as third places, consider the types of experiences they can Essentials: The value of 3rd places in senior living LEADINGAGE COLORADO SAVE THE DATE ASSISTED LIVING CONFERENCE September 14, 2023 Attendee & Exhibitor Opportunities Available More Information: www.LeadingAgeColorado.org Westminster, CO SENIORS HOUSING: DESIGN John Binder Principal and director of architecture, Kephart By leaving art supplies and games out and easily accessible for residents, this craft room invites passersby in to try a new activity and creates a space for casual encounters. Please see Binder, Page 23 In this example, the courtyard becomes a third place for residents. The space is activat- ed by varied intimate seating, water and fire features, and a gazebo for performances for residents and the greater community to enjoy.