A design Strategy for Printed Upholstery Fabrics for the Elderly Dwelling

Abstract

Aging is accompanied by many psychological and social changes. These changes affect organic functions. Kinetics, nervousness, and physiological changes accompanying aging relate to two aspects: structural and functional. Structural changes are characterized by the loss of body cells as a result of more destructive chemical reactions in the body than constructive chemical reactions in every part of the body's living systems. Functional changes indicate that the body is unable to resist external influences as a result of a decaying body buildup. Hence the inability to perform vital functions such as visual impairment, and poor neurological responses. Psychological and social changes are largely related to physiological changes. This is manifested by symptoms of depression, boredom, loneliness, memory loss, illness illusion and frequent complaints. These changes vary from person to person depending on the individual differences. Hence the idea of ​​the research came to confirm the creation of the surrounding environment of the elderly through designs of printing fabrics for furnishing the rooms in a way that suits the taste of this stage so as to send calm and psychological comfort to the elderly. A number of designs, paintings, and artworks similar to a specified period were presented to a selected sample of the elderly in the specified aged home. Their preferences are then recorded and used to design different styles suitable for each type of furniture. And since the different sensory organs are strongly affected by age. Therefore, psychological changes are expected to follow their reduced ability. This study is an attempt to compensate for this reduced preparations by changing the surrounding environment of the elderly, by creating appropriate designs to print upholstery fabrics for the aged care rooms according to their preferences. It can be said that the main research question is "Is it possible to provide furniture designs for the elderly that match their preferences and choices? Thus this study aims to reach a clear strategy for an innovative design suitable for use in the printing of furnishing fabrics for the care rooms of the elderly. Inspired by natural elements and modern art." To achieve this, the researcher identified the aesthetic and artistic preferences of the elderly and then built a strategy to benefit from them in the work of furnishing fabric designs for the homes of the elderly in a manner that achieves peace of mind and prevents depression