Over the next several decades, elderly and vulnerable populations will increasingly access acute and ambulatory settings. Older patients, especially those with dementia, are disproportionately negatively affected by care models that cater to able-bodied single-condition patients. The design of care settings is a modifiable risk factor that can facilitate better outcomes. This session explores the objectives of safety, efficiency, satisfaction, and high-quality care in relation to designing care environments supportive of aging and sensitive to dementia. The researcher and designer presentation team will share specific insights, reflections, suggestions, and strategies for designing waiting settings for older adults, their companions, and personnel.