New complex to help residents live longer, happier lives: Q&A

One of Australia's major aged care providers has built a new apartment complex that aims to promote longevity for its residents.

Uniting's McRae-McMahon Place is a 65-apartment complex in Sydney with design elements that may boost social connectedness, including a central community area and outdoor green space.

The building was inspired by 'blue zones' where people live beyond a hundred years because of an optimal climate and social network.

Okinawa, Japan, is one of those zones, with an average life expectancy of 87. 

Research has suggested the community's dedication to maintaining a powerful social network, even into old age, has contributed to their exceptional longevity. 

"We know that vibrant, intimate and connected communities live longer," Uniting Property director Simon Furness said.

Furness joined Aged Care Insite in a conversation about blue zones and how providers can improve their residents' wellbeing.

ACI: Could you start by telling me a bit about the apartment complex and what design features are aimed to promote longevity?

SF: The principles underpin the Blue Zone research we did and used in the design of those buildings. Blue zone research has shown that people live longer in those areas around the world. 

There's strong evidence that some of the underlying factors why people live longer in those zones are due to having good spiritual family and social networks. Social connectedness is critical to longevity.

So, they have little pockets for older people in their community, and we've tried to incorporate that into our design. 

We tried to create communal spaces that promote vibrant, interim and connectedness within the apartment block. So, we're trying to encourage people to come out of their apartments, spend time with others and socialise - to stay connected. 

Even as they get older and less mobile, older people can still be in vibrant communities where they remain connected. 

And that is one of the key research areas that came out of the Blue Zone research.

The other big thing that came out of the research was that regular exercise was crucial to longevity. So, in our design, we've implemented a seniors' gym close by. 

We hope that this also encourages people to exercise regularly in a deliberate way, ensuring that it becomes part of their daily life. 

And what feedback have you had from residents yet? 

We've certainly had some feedback, and they're very happy with the communal areas and space. It has encouraged them to get out of their rooms more. It feels like the heart of the building - very vibrant and lively. 

The location of the apartment block is also convenient because there's a park within walking distance. So, right out of the front door, there's life and people going about their daily business. 

It's really helpful in motivating people and living active lives.

What features in these apartment blocks stand out to you the most as beneficial for residents?

I'd say the design, in combination with the outdoor space. There are these green spaces where people can enjoy nature while socialising.

When you want to promote longevity similar to those blue zones, you have to develop a good design with communal areas.

Obviously, you can't make people have a good diet, and you can't force anyone to exercise, but we can put them in an environment where they're encouraged to do these things.

They're encouraged to share their food in a communal space and to eat healthily. They're also prompted to be active and to move around. 

So, that's the highlight of this design and the location.

As an aged care provider, we try to enliven the people within the community. It's about the mutual support of residents with one another. 

We can have the world's greatest village manager, but the support residents give each other is so critical.

By promoting connectedness as people age, we can help them live long, healthy, and happy lives. 

Do you have an idea for a story?
Email [email protected]