Secondly, but also extremely important, Moore says, is user input. Designers should bring in user perspective and experience so they can design through their eyes. While improving patient quality of life is the ultimate goal, designers aim to create living environments that are both beautiful and functional, where residents feel at ease. After practicing interior design for more than 20 years, Weiner went back to school to become an occupational therapist, and then combined her two professions into a business in which she could be creative and practice health care. Using her OT skills, Weiner first performs a functional assessment with clients, and then makes suggestions for adapting the living environment.
Rehabilitation can only take a patient so far.
The apartment that Weiner designed for Rachel and Bill is both aesthetic and accessible. Every amenity was custom-fitted for Rachel. Weiner watched her perform everyday tasks, such as getting in and out of bed and using the bathroom, in order to establish the types of accommodations she would need. Weiner also factored in activities that Rachel had expressed interest in doing, but wasn't able to. Because Rachel is left-handed, all conveniences are located to the left of her working space.