A study of spatial and environmental elements influencing wayfinding by visually impaired patients in outpatient departments of general hospitals
This study explores the intricate challenges of wayfinding that visually impaired patients encounter within the outpatient departments of general hospitals.Addressing this aspect is essential for bolstering the inclusivity and functionality of healthcare environments.In the face of an escalating prevalence of visual impairment,which poses considerable public health concerns,the imperative for meticulous and inclusive design in healthcare facilities has never been more critical.As visually impaired individuals traverse the complex maze of hospital corridors,departments,and services,the architectural design of hospitals bears the responsibility to cater to their distinct requirements.The research employs a qualitative approach,commencing with semi-structured interviews of visually impaired patients to identify the spatial and environmental elements impacting their wayfinding experience.These interviews provide an in-depth look at the challenges faced,from navigating large open spaces to interpreting complex layouts,which might be effortlessly navigated by those possessing full visual acuity.Employing the process of Grounded Theory,the study meticulously codes and dissects the textual data derived from these interviews.This analytical process leads to the construction of a foundational framework that encapsulates the key elements influencing the wayfinding process.This methodological choice is pivotal as it guarantees that the study's conclusions are fundamentally anchored in the authentic experiences and viewpoints of the patients themselves,lending a voice to their unique navigational journeys within the healthcare setting.Subsequently,ophthalmology staff engages in a rigorous review process of the emerging framework,facilitated through online discussions.This collaborative effort is pivotal,ensuring that the framework is not only practically relevant but also enriched with professional insights.The expert feedback from these discussions is instrumental,effectively bridging the divide between the nuanced needs of patients and the pragmatic implementation of design solutions within the existing architectural constraints of hospitals.The study identifies five principal categories of influencing elements:spatial elements,environmental elements,characteristics of the navigators,behaviors of others,and hospital service management.Spatial components are characterized by the organization and form,emphasizing the clarity of the layout and the distinctiveness of spatial landmarks.This encompasses the strategic placement of departments,the prominence of landmarks,and the fluidity with which patients navigate the various sectors of the hospital.Environmental elements include the signage and navigation systems,environmental accessibility,and the indoor auditory and visual environment.These elements are crucial in compensating for the lack of visual cues and include the use of tactile and auditory signals to assist in navigation.The study also highlights the importance of lighting,color contrasts,and the overall sensory experience within the hospital environment.The study is fortified by a comparative literature review that lends additional credence to its findings.This review accentuates the universality of key elements that consistently affect the wayfinding experience of visually impaired patients,regardless of the architectural typology.Simultaneously,it pinpoints the specificity of certain elements that are particularly relevant within the context of healthcare environments.The review brings forth established theories and practices in the field,allowing the study to situate its findings within a broader discourse on wayfinding and design.The study contributes to the discourse by offering a more systematic integration and detailed classification of these elements,clarifying their complex interrelations.Based on the findings,the research presents design recommendations tailored to enhance wayfinding for visually impaired patients.These include controlling spatial order and scale,ensuring effective environmental information,and addressing specific needs related to vertical circulation,signage appearance,sensory compensation,and the visual environment.Practical and executable,these recommendations delineate a strategic approach for healthcare institutions to enhance their facilities.In conclusion,this research stands as a pivotal advancement in the quest to fully comprehend the wayfinding challenges that visually impaired patients encounter within hospital settings.It offers actionable,insightful guidance to architects,designers,and healthcare administrators,empowering them to forge more inclusive and navigable healthcare environments.These environments are meticulously designed to be sensitive to the diverse needs of all patients,with a special consideration for those navigating with visual impairments.By integrating these insights,hospitals can evolve into spaces that are not only more accessible but also exude a sense of welcome and ease.This transformation ensures that every individual,irrespective of their visual capabilities,can seek and receive the care they require without being encumbered by unnecessary difficulties or emotional strain.The research thus paves the way for a more empathetic approach to healthcare design,championing universal accessibility and patient-centric solutions.
general hospitaloutpatient departmentwayfindingvisually impaired patientspace and environment
国家科技期刊平台
NSTL
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