Elderly Preferences for Biophilic Bathroom Materials and Elements: Understanding Safety and Well-Being

The growing elderly population and their heightened vulnerability in wet environments underscore the necessity of re-evaluating bathroom design as one of the most hazardous residential spaces. Among interior design components, materials play a pivotal role in shaping psychological perception, the sense of safety, and the overall spatial experience of older adults. Although common bathroom materials such as stone and ceramic tiles are suitable in terms of durability and ease of maintenance, research suggests that these cold and rigid surfaces may intensify feelings of anxiety, lifelessness, and insecurity among the elderly. This study aims to investigate elderly individuals' preferences regarding bathroom materials and to assess the acceptance level of thermally modified wood (ThermoWood) within a biophilic design approach. The present research is a descriptive-survey study, and its data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered in person to ۱۱۸ older adults aged ۵۵ to ۹۰ residing in Tabriz. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information, an evaluation of the psychological perception of materials, attitudes toward biophilic design, and the degree of acceptance of wood in wet environments. The findings indicate that older adults have an inherent inclination toward traditional materials (stone and ceramic tiles) and adopt a cautious stance toward new materials; however, wood-when accompanied by proper information about moisture resistance and maintenance can be accepted as a complementary material. The results further illustrate that moisture-resistant wood enhances perceptions of warmth, tranquility, safety, and spatial vitality, and may contribute to reducing stress and perceived risk among the elderly. No significant gender differences were observed in preferences; younger elderly adults (۵۵-۵۹ years) expressed a more positive attitude toward wood; and participants with higher levels of education showed slightly greater acceptance of new materials. By identifying the psychological role of materials and analyzing the acceptance of ThermoWood among older adults, this study addresses part of the existing gap in bathroom design from a biophilic perspective and offers practical guidance for architects and interior designers in creating safer, more desirable, and elderly-responsive environments.

کلیدواژه ها:

Elderly preferences ، Bathroom design ، Biophilic materials ، ThermoWood ، Safety and well-being