This study focuses on how far and under what circumstances nursing home residents walk to access social spaces within the home. Its findings provide information on nursing home design to be used by design researchers and practitioners.
Research Design
A sample of 960 residents served as a pool for 30 days of behavior observations in five nursing homes. Data were collected on how many and in what context residents were observed in social spaces. Fifty residents were interviewed and kept diaries to provide data on (a) when they went out of their bedroom, (b) where they went, (c) what prompted their travel.
Analysis
A log–linear analysis and Hests (N=378) served to assess whether the use of social spaces was correlated with the distance between bedrooms and social spaces and to uncover factors influencing this dynamic. Qualitative data were classified through a content analysis. Interjudge agreements, means, and percentages served to summarize results.
Key Findings
The study identified factors influencing the decisions of nursing home residents about their travel through nursing homes to access social spaces. Such factors included whether residents go to social spaces to take a walk and exercise, to see a new bronze sculpture, or to participate in an activity.
Conclusion
The study highlights an array of positive behaviors among the residents, benefiting design theory and practice. By providing the right settings, features, and context, designers can encourage walking and the use of social spaces among residents.
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