ACE units have an environment designed to
meet the unique needs of the geriatric patient.
Environmental features include carpeting in patient
rooms and hallway and handrails in the hallways
to support independent ambulation; large
clocks and calendars in patient rooms to assist orientation;
elevated toilet seats; large lever-style
door handles; and a parlor room for group meals,
activities, and visiting with guests.These environmental
characteristics are intended to meet
needs of older patients, i.e., promoting activities
of daily livingperformance without
assistance.