Universal Design for Socialization

The New York Times (NYT) printed an article recently about "super-agers". What is a "super-ager" you may ask. Well I don't think that is a technical term, however, the NYT defines it as an individual who is 80 and up, but has the memory ability of a person who is 20-30 years younger. According to the NYT article, there is one factor that all of these "super-agers have in common"... they tend to be extroverted, but more importantly, they value the importance of social relationships. Now, I don't actually believe socialization is the only key to living a long and happy life, however, it is helpful. So, if social relationships is one of the keys to aging gracefully and happily, it should definitely be included in universal design features.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/07/well/mind/super-agers-social-connections.html

Why do I want to incorporate socialization into my universal design concepts? Well, we can't force people to socialize, but we can create inviting spaces that encourage socialization. Hotels, college dormitories, restaurants, and community centers are great at providing spaces that encourage socialization. But it would also be great if other areas were designed for socialization as well, such as grocery stores, a doctor's office, or the post office. What??? I don't want to socialize in any of those places - you may be thinking to yourself. However, a grocery store, doctor's office, and post office are all spaces that seniors frequent and they can also be areas that induce a higher than normal level of anxiety. Why not make it easy for people to socialize? They'll have a much more pleasant experience while waiting or doing errands AND possibly improve their quality of life.

So how do I incorporate socialization into my universal design concepts?

Here are a few ideas to make public spaces places where people want to socialize.

-Put on fun, happy music

-Put on a funny TV show so people can laugh together

-Have plenty of comfortable seating options with armrests (no hard surfaces please)

-Arrange seating in small groups with a shared table-top surface

-Have current, non-confrontational conversation pieces on each of the tables i.e. games, puzzles, the weather forecast, or community events

-Keep external noise level low, but not silent

-Have interesting design features that target a variety of interests such as plants, artwork, statues, furniture, color use, and knickknacks

-Have snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic of course),

-Add a coffee/tea station

-Add warm lighting that is not too bright and not too dim

-Create a "homey" feel with fireplace, lamps, magazines, free wifi, video games, books, craft projects, ottomans, or fidgets

Of course, there can be some solo seating for the introverts, but let's encourage our seniors to socialize and have fun, it's good for their health!