A Study on Bathroom Space Design for Elderly People in China

Population aging has become a global issue, with China experiencing particularly severe challenges due to rapid social and economic development, coupled with a large and rapidly growing elderly population. Among the various living spaces for the elderly, the bathroom is a highly private and frequently used area that requires special attention in its design to address the unique needs of elderly users. This study utilizes research methods such as literature review, case analysis, and inductive summarization to examine the living habits, physical conditions, and behavioral patterns of the elderly within bathroom spaces. The study identifies key shortcomings in current bathroom space designs and outlines the specific design needs of elderly individuals in China.<br/> This research categorizes elderly individuals based on age, analyzes their physical and behavioral characteristics, and establishes the relationship between their primary activities and the bathroom facilities. Additionally, the basic functions, functional zoning, and usage areas of bathroom facilities are investigated, offering practical recommendations for improvement. The study focuses on the primary issues and needs encountered in bathroom spaces designed for the elderly, providing key design considerations to meet user-centered requirements for elderly bathroom space design.<br/> In the context of an aging society, this study proposes new strategies and directions for elderly bathroom space design, providing a theoretical foundation for future research and development in this field.