BMC health services research
Integrating outdoor environments into health service delivery at residential care facilities for older adults
By Liljegren M, Bengtsson A, Lindahl G and 1 others.
Abstract
Background
Outdoor environments may support everyday activities, person-centred care and rehabilitation, and health and well-being among older adults in residential care facilities (RCFs). However, how they can be integrated into routine health service delivery remains underexplored. This study aimed to explore how outdoor environments can support everyday activities and person-centred care and rehabilitation in RCFs, and to identify perceived benefits and barriers to their use in routine health service delivery.
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted using individual walking interviews with older adults and focus group walking interviews with care workers at three Swedish RCFs. Data were organised according to the model of four zones in contact with the outdoors: indoor environments with windows (Zone 1), transitional outdoor environments (Zone 2), gardens (Zone 3), and the surroundings (Zone 4). Everyday activities, care and rehabilitation were identified across the zones, together with perceived benefits and barriers. Practices were distinguished as either currently occurring or potential uses.