The physical environment,activity and interaction in residential care facilities for older people: a comparative case study |
| |
| Authors: | Susanna Nordin RN Kevin McKee BSc PhD Maria Wallinder MSc Lena von Koch RPT PhD Helle Wijk RN PhD Marie Elf RN PhD |
| |
| Affiliation: | 1. School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden;2. Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden;3. Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden;4. Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden |
| |
| Abstract: | The physical environment is of particular importance for supporting activities and interactions among older people living in residential care facilities (RCFs) who spend most of their time inside the facility. More knowledge is needed regarding the complex relationships between older people and environmental aspects in long‐term care. The present study aimed to explore how the physical environment influences resident activities and interactions at two RCFs by using a mixed‐method approach. Environmental assessments were conducted via the Swedish version of the Sheffield Care Environment Assessment Matrix (S‐SCEAM), and resident activities, interactions and locations were assessed through an adapted version of the Dementia Care Mapping (DCM). The Observed Emotion Rating Scale (OERS) was used to assess residents’ affective states. Field notes and walk‐along interviews were also used. Findings indicate that the design of the physical environment influenced the residents’ activities and interactions. Private apartments and dining areas showed high environmental quality at both RCFs, whereas the overall layout had lower quality. Safety was highly supported. Despite high environmental quality in general, several factors restricted resident activities. To optimise care for older people, the design process must clearly focus on accessible environments that provide options for residents to use the facility independently. |
| |
| Keywords: | activities case study interactions mixed‐method older people physical environment residential care facilities |
|
|
