Building for Senior Living: Building Codes, Sustainability, and Structural Systems

 

Because the health of the aging can be precarious and their safety is paramount, senior housing and care facilities are very carefully regulated. Federal and state governments subject some new projects to codes that govern program areas and the construction of all the major building systems. In addition, most states have detailed regulations written specifically to govern certain senior housing and care building types, including nursing homes, adult day care, outpatient diagnostic and treatment facilities, and some forms of assisted living. These regulations cover everything from space and environmental standards to resident rights and staffing requirements.

This course covers building codes, structural systems, and sustainable building design for senior housing and care facilities. Federal, state, and local codes and regulations will be discussed, including safety and accessibility requirements. Selection of appropriate structural system or combination of systems, and the incorporation sustainable design principles into the senior housing and care facilities will also be covered in this course.