A Glimmer of Home in Long-Term Care Interior Environments

This qualitative study addresses the impact of the interior environment on residents in long-term care settings. The provincial government of Nova Scotia, Canada has built 11 care settings to support improved outcomes for older adults in their province. This cross-case analysis addresses the interior layout of two care settings owned by the same provider in Nova Scotia. The first is a traditional care environment layout with double-loaded corridors, shared bedrooms and baths, and large group dining rooms. The second is the new model of care broken down into small households (SH) for 12 residents each. These SH care models include a living room, dining room, kitchen and private bedrooms. Observations took place for eight weeks at both care settings and interviews were conducted with residents, family members and staff. The interior design of the environment had a direct impact on the social environment in the communities and past preferences of each individual were critical in the provision of care.