Introducing the Outdoor Environment as an Arena for Person-Centered Care and Rehabilitation at Residential Care Facilities for Older Adults-A Care Worker's Perspective

Abstract

Despite research on positive health effects of outdoor stays, outdoor environments at residential care facilities for older adults seem to be rarely used for person-centered care and rehabilitation. The aim was to explore care workers' reflections on the outdoor environment as an arena for care and rehabilitation. The method used was focus groups, such as walking interviews. The results are summarized in three themes: potential for health, potential for enriched everyday life, and challenges for operational development. The findings indicate that outdoor environments have the potential to support person-centered care and rehabilitation and could be included in the operating concepts.

Keywords

Care worker; older adult; outdoor environment; outdoor stay; person-centered care and rehabilitation; residential care facility

Published in

Journal of Aging and Environment
2024
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD

SLU Authors

• Bengtsson, Anna

  • Department of People and Society, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Health Care Service and Management, Health Policy and Services and Health Economy
Gerontology, specialising in Medical and Health Sciences

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/26892618.2024.2422411

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/139267