Lessons Learned from Isolation During a Pandemic – Care Setting

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to care homes and the wider care sector, exposing vulnerabilities in traditional care settings and the need for significant changes moving forward. At West Waddy Archadia (WWA), we believe that these challenges present an opportunity to rethink how we design and manage care environments to better protect residents, staff, and visitors while promoting well-being and connection.

In this research document, we explore how the lessons learned during the pandemic can inform future care home design. From improving infection control through smaller, clustered living arrangements to creating flexible and welcoming spaces for social interaction, our goal is to rethink care settings to ensure safety without compromising quality of life. We also delve into strategies for adapting existing buildings, integrating outdoor spaces, and employing innovative solutions like visitor pods to facilitate safe connections between residents and loved ones.

This document will address key questions regarding the future of care homes, focusing on balancing infection control, operational efficiency, and the emotional needs of residents, staff, and visitors. As we navigate the post-COVID world, it’s time to rewrite the narrative around care homes and create environments that are not only safe but also nurturing, inclusive, and community-oriented.

Click the link below to view the full research document