An observation of assisted living environments: space use and behavior.
Assisted living facilities have become increasingly popular for older adults needing assistance. They are intended to enable privacy and provide support, but the extent to which they do so, and the degree to which these relate to residents' needs, are unknown. This observational study of 1830 residents in 182 facilities indicates that, during the mid-afternoon, the majority of residents are awake (79%), and one-half (49%) are awake and in public spaces. Residents who are cognitively and functionally impaired are more likely to be in public spaces, but less likely to be engaged. Residents who are awake and alone in private spaces are less likely to be impaired, but more likely to have medical conditions. Thus, residents needing more oversight seem to be positioned to obtain that oversight.
Zimmerman
Sheryl
S
Mitchell
C Madeline
CM
Chen
Cory K
CK
Morgan
Leslie A
LA
Gruber-Baldini
Ann L
AL
Sloane
Philip D
PD
Eckert
J Kevin
JK
Munn
Jean
J
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D040561:Assisted Living Facilities / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D003704:Dementia / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D016330:Frail Elderly / Q000523:psychology*; D006272:Health Facility Environment; D006707:Homes for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008134:Long-Term Care / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D008297:Male; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D019370:Observation; D012919:Social Behavior; D014481:United States