Experiment of Color Schemes for the Elderly in Apartment Bathrooms

Abstract

Suggested color combinations and actually existing color combinations for apartment bathrooms are empirically examined in this experiment to test the levels of color discernment for both normal and elderly vision. A YA3 filter was employed for simulating yellowed eyesight that commonly affects the color vision of the elderly. Results of the study imply most color combinations in apartment bathrooms found in Korea today are difficult to discern for both the elderly and young adults with normal vision. In elderly vision, the high discernment levels of the suggested combinations support the efficiency of the color schemes developed in the previous study. The color schemes were complemented and improved through analysis of other combinations, which showed low discernment levels in normal or elderly vision. In conclusion, with the perspective of universal design in mind, this study suggested color schemes that are easily discernable for both elderly and normal vision while maintaining the original mood.