case study:

Presbyterian Homes
Alzheimer’s Nursing Unit
Evanston, IL

Challenges
Jensen & Halstead was challenged with improving the functionality and aesthetics of Presbyterian Homes’ Alzheimer’s Nursing Unit. In order to promote better interaction between staff and residents, Presbyterian Homes wanted to provide a non-institutional atmosphere where residents feel safe and more at home. Additionally, the space needed to continue functioning as a Skilled Care Nursing Unit.

Solutions
The first step entailed increasing the size of the social area and replacing the traditional nurse station with an inviting dining room table accompanied by a separate charting area. This setting encourages residents to interact with staff while increasing the staff’s observation of residents.

Custom murals simulating window views to English country gardens were painted over the elevator doors to reduce the institutional look of the elevators and decrease the incidents of resident elopement. Warm design features such as wood chair rails, picture moldings and wood cabinets completed the residential transformation.