Accessibility of museum facilities for older adults in the context of contemporary architectural solutions: a case study of 3 museums in Cairo.

Authors

Dorota Wojtowicz-Jankowska

Published in

Medycyna pracy. Sep 11, 2026. Epub Sep 11, 2026.

Abstract

Contemporary societies are aging rapidly, which influences the design of public spaces, including museums. The growing number of older people among cultural audiences necessitates taking their needs and limitations into account when shaping architecture and organizing exhibitions. Key factors in the transformations observed in these facilities include the clarity of the visitor route, the quality of lighting, acoustics.
The study is comparative in nature and concerns the development of museum architecture in Cairo, with particular emphasis on architectural, technological, and functional solutions adapted to the needs of older adults. The analysis includes 3 prestigious museums - the Egyptian Museum, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, and the Grand Egyptian Museum - presenting unique archaeological collections. The research method considers spatial analysis with a focus on visitors aged >60 years, whose number is increasing.
For older visitors, solutions that support intuitive orientation and reduce cognitive fatigue are essential. Clear signage, logical spatial organization, and the possibility of choosing individual routes are of key importance. It is also crucial to design circulation paths to eliminate feelings of chaos and disorientation. The analysis also considers factors such as confusion, information overload, and anxiety in crowded spaces.
Contemporary museums are becoming inclusive spaces that respond to the needs of diverse audiences, including older adults. This group is likely to represent the future of many institutions, including museums, as their primary visitors. Therefore, architectural solutions are not only innovative forms but also comfort-oriented approaches aimed at creating welcoming environments. Enhancing visitor comfort by reducing fatigue and using diverse means of communication may encourage engagement with museums and their collections. This is linked both to the development of technologies supporting ambitious architectural projects and to the creation of comfortable environments for the increasingly significant group of seniors, influencing museum design directions and the development of cultural tourism. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2026;77(4).

PMID:
42806879
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 29 Sep 2026.

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