Scientists are currently investigating the role of acoustics in the care of the elderly, under the leadership of Nicole van Hout. She is co-owner of Level Acoustics and is participating in a major research project entitled “Life enrichment care. Building physics interventions for the well-being of frail elderly.”
The project aims to enhance physical environmental conditions in order to improve residents’ quality of life. Another objective is to establish guidelines or regulations for acoustics that can be incorporated into performance requirements in the building and construction industry.
eventually, this can lead to social isolation and loneliness
“At age 80, about 64 percent of people are hearing impaired. Due to hearing loss, older people experience difficulties with hearing speech and engaging in conversations. Eventually, this can lead to social isolation and loneliness. Particular attention to acoustics is not a luxury but a necessity”, Nicole says.
Read the full interview with Nicole and experience how it is to hear like an 80-year-old in the new digital ECO Magazine Healthcare Edition (completely free)
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