Based on different studies, between 15-20 percent of the population is considered neurodiverse\u2014a term that describes the range of neurological differences that exist among people. These conditions include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and Tourette syndrome.<\/p>\n
Looking at the pediatric population, specifically, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention\u2019s<\/a> Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network estimates that about 1 in 44 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder.<\/p>\n Fueled by both growing awareness and research, more healthcare organizations are looking for design solutions to address patients\u2019 diverse needs\u2014not just in facilities with specific services, such as an autism clinic, but also more general healthcare environments. (For more on this topic, read \u201cSeattle Children\u2019s Focuses On Neurodiverse Patient Needs At New Clinic<\/a>,\u201d which ran in Healthcare Design<\/em>\u2019s April 2023 issue<\/a>.)<\/p>\n \u201cThe design of a more inclusive environment that better supports the entire population is just good design,\u201d says Karen S. Freeman, principal and healthcare practice leader at HOK\u2019s<\/a> Atlanta office. \u201cSo it\u2019s becoming a more prevalent topic than it ever has before.\u201d<\/p>\n For example, Freeman says more pediatric clients are looking for design ideas that support patients with different neurological needs as well as their families.<\/p>\n \u201cBeing in a healthcare space can be a stressful environment for anyone, but in particular for the neurodiverse,\u201d who can be over- or under-stimulated by factors such as lighting, sound, texture, and smells, she says.<\/p>\n Design approaches that consider these experiential aspects of the environment and offer options and choice within the healthcare setting are some of the solutions she discusses with clients.<\/p>\n For example, providing a seating niche in a waiting room can provide the opportunity for someone to feel more enclosed and secure while waiting for their appointment.<\/p>\n Other ideas, such as temperature or lighting controls, allow users to adjust settings to their preferences.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s about flexibility and choice and giving people autonomy over their environment, and the opportunity for dignity and effective management of their own needs,\u201d she says.<\/p>\nDesigning inclusive healthcare settings<\/h2>\n
Design considerations for neurodiverse patients<\/h2>\n