The relationship between the quality of the built environment and the quality of life of people with dementia in residential care

Authors

Richard Fleming, University of WollongongFollow
Belinda J. Goodenough, University of New South WalesFollow
Lee-Fay Low, University of New South Wales
Lynn Chenoweth, University of Technology, SydneyFollow
Henry Brodaty, University of New South Wales

RIS ID

89782

Publication Details

Fleming, R., Goodenough, B., Low, L., Chenoweth, L. & Brodaty, H. (2016). The relationship between the quality of the built environment and the quality of life of people with dementia in residential care. Dementia: the international journal of social research and practice, 15 (4), 663-680.

Abstract

While there is considerable evidence on the impact of specific design features on problems associated with dementia, the link between the quality of the built environment and quality of life of people with dementia is largely unexplored. This study explored the environmental and personal characteristics that are associated with quality of life in people with dementia living in residential aged care. Data were obtained from 275 residents of 35 aged care homes and analysed using linear regression. The quality of the built environment was significantly associated with the quality of life of the resident measured by global self-report. Environmental ratings were not associated with proxy or detailed self-report ratings. Higher quality of life is associated with buildings that facilitate engagement with a variety of activities both inside and outside, are familiar, provide a variety of private and community spaces and the amenities and opportunities to take part in domestic activities.