In-Between Area Design Method: An Optimization Design Method for Indoor Public Spaces for Elderly Facilities Evaluated by STAI, HRV and EEG

The indoor public spaces of most elderly facilities in China have a monotonous space form, which, thus, causes low comprehensive performance and is less likely to satisfy participants' various requirements. This study proposes an optimization design method of In-Between Area for a space form operation to improve the performance of indoor public spaces. First, two models were established: Model A to reflect current indoor public spaces and Model B to represent the indoor public spaces designed by using the In-Between Area method. Second, a walk-through video was created from each model, with a duration of 196 s. Subjective assessment (STAI) data and objective physiological data (HRV and EEG), were collected from 40 participants while they were watching walk-through videos. The comparison analysis showed statistically significant differences between Model A and Model B. The results of STAI, HRV and EEG proved that the In-Between Area method, as an optimization design method, created a more pleasant and comfortable environment for the elderly and improved the overall efficiency of the indoor space.

Automated summary

The indoor public spaces of most elderly facilities in China are monotonous and fail to meet different requirements. This study explores an optimization design method to improve the performance of indoor public spaces, and finds that using the "In-Between Area" method can better meet the needs of the elderly and enhance overall efficiency.