Now more than ever, prospective residents are using rehabilitation gyms as deciding factors for the community they choose – and gyms help boost current residents’ health and overall satisfaction as well. That’s why it’s important to create attractive spaces where residents can not only make progress on their wellness goals, but also where they’re excited to work out and be active.
Today’s gyms are more than just rooms of equipment – they are one component of a wellness program. Many communities are developing comprehensive programs that benefit spiritual and mental wellness as well as physical. These programs may include nutrition programming and meditation classes in addition to therapy and fitness classes.
Here are a few considerations when designing purposeful rehabilitation gyms:
1. Incorporate Thoughtful Spatial Design
When developing the space plan for your gym, draw inspiration from public gyms. Many seniors belong to gyms, so they’ll expect the same set up in a Senior Living community. Add a variety of cardio machines and weights to allow for a wide array of exercises. Placing cardio machines near a window or TV offers residents something to look at while working out. Also be sure to leave adequate walking paths around the equipment for easier maneuvering. Browse customer-favorite equipment to gain inspiration for your rehabilitation space.
In a physical therapy gym, create quiet treatment areas. Partitioning off those areas helps ensure privacy for residents receiving treatment.
Adding group activities is a great way to expand a wellness program. Consider installing mirrors for group classes, a barre for stability and nonslip flooring. Acoustical panels and ceiling clouds help manage sound in a group setting, which is especially important for seniors.
2. Infuse Energizing Color and Light
Fill the rehabilitation gym with as much natural light as possible – natural daylight affects our circadian rhythm and can help energize us for a workout. Choose daylight lightbulbs instead of fluorescent lighting to mimic natural light.
When it comes to the color palette, think fresh, energizing colors. Bright blues and teals are popular options for rehabilitation spaces and can help keep residents energized. Orange is currently an on-trend choice for gyms and its warmth helps mimic invigorating natural sunlight.
3. Add Attractive Amenities
Appealing rehabilitation gyms include more than just the equipment – many also include special amenities that help the space feel like a public gym. Consider including a juice bar or small café where residents can grab a refreshing drink or healthy snack after they finish a session. Situating the café in or near the gym helps create a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
A nearby café would also be a great place for a dietician to help meal plan and share nutritional information with residents. Hosting special nutrition programming helps support a comprehensive wellness program.
Also consider adding a waiting area to the gym for residents who are waiting to meet with a physical therapist or nutritionist. Include charging ports so residents can conveniently charge electronics for use during workouts.
Creating an energizing gym atmosphere will attract prospective residents and encourage current residents to continue working toward their health and wellness goals. If you need assistance with equipment planning, rely on Direct Supply’s experts for help creating the ideal rehabilitation space.
For more tips and tricks, check out how to use color in Senior Living or contact us today to start your Senior Living project.