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Integrating Biophilic Design Principles in Geriatric Hospitals to Enhance Recovery Outcomes and Well-Being Among Older Adults

David Udo Kalu, Prof. Arc. A. M. Ezezue

Abstract

The growing elderly population in Nigeria presents increasing challenges for healthcare delivery, particularly given the limited availability of specialized geriatric facilities. This study examines the role of biophilic design in improving recovery outcomes and overall well- being among older adults. The objectives include evaluating the influence of biophilic design on elderly well-being, identifying deficiencies in existing healthcare facilities, assessing environmental conditions affecting implementation, and developing a context-responsive architectural framework. A qualitative case study methodology was employed, incorporating literature review and comparative case studies. The study is theoretically grounded in the Biophilia Hypothesis, Stress Recovery Theory , Attention Restoration Theory , and Salutogenesis. Findings indicate that nature-integrated healthcare environments can reduce hospital length of stay and decrease analgesic use, while exposure to indoor vegetation is associated with improved cognitive and psychological outcomes. Environmental analysis of Awka reveals declining vegetation cover alongside increasing urban heat island effects, highlighting the urgent need for climate-responsive healthcare design. In response, the study proposes a biophilic architectural framework based on the Biophilia– Salutogenesis–Eudaimonia model, integrating indigenous vegetation and passive environmental strategies. The study concludes that biophilic architecture has the potential to transform healthcare facilities into restorative environments that actively support healing, comfort, and healthy aging.

Keywords

ArchitectureBiophilic DesignGeriatric HospitalOlder AdultsWell-beingAwkaNigeria.

References

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