Designing Cognitive-Friendly Kitchens: A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Visual Accessibility and Adaptive Technology for Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Aging in place is a priority for many older adults, yet mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, increasingly impairs instrumental activities of daily living such as meal preparation. Most kitchen designs prioritize aesthetics over cognitive accessibility, and empirical evidence on how design affects cognitive load, motivation, and functional independence among older adults with MCI remains limited. This dissertation investigates how visually accessible kitchen cabinet designs can support functional independence for older adults with MCI through an evidence-based, user-centered approach grounded in Cognitive Load Theory, Self-Determination Theory, and Environmental Press Theory. Three complementary studies were conducted. The first study used a within-subject experiment with eleven older adults with MCI in a real kitchen, comparing open shelving to closed cabinets using eye-tracking, accelerometry, task duration, and motivational surveys. Open shelving reduced unnecessary physical movement and task duration while improving perceived competence, though aesthetic and clutter concerns tempered acceptance. The second study replicated and extended these findings in a photorealistic virtual reality kitchen with seventeen participants. Linear mixed-effects modeling confirmed that open shelving significantly reduced task duration and physical activity burden and altered visual search patterns, with qualitative data indicating that visual accessibility facilitated cognitive offloading. The third study engaged older adults with MCI and care partners in a participatory co-design workshop using structured card-based activities to identify preferred cabinet features. Thematic analysis revealed preferences for dynamic glass cabinets, pull-out trays, and passive automation, validated by occupational and physical therapists. These studies demonstrate that visual accessibility reduces task burden during kitchen activities and contribute a multidisciplinary design framework for supporting aging in place.

Name thesis:degree_name

Building Construction, PhD

Grantor

Georgia Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Bilau, Ibrahim Ajao

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Yang, Eunhwa

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Walker, Bruce
• Erdogmus, Ece
• Cai, Hui
• Kwon, Hyeokhyen
• Ogunseiju, Omobolanle

Language dc:language.iso

English

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/1853/81733

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.gatech.edu:1853/81733