| The need for long-term care facilities (LTCF) for the elderly is increasing dramatically as the population in many countries ages. Although there is a significant body of research addressing the design and performance of LTCFs in North America, little is known about these facilities in Asia. The goal of this study is to explore the physical environment in Asian LTCFs by utilizing elements of Rodiek's (2010) LTCF evaluation tool as a guide. Fourteen LTCFs in Taipei, Sanjhih, Hong Kong, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Macau were selected for evaluation in November, 2010. Each location was visited and assessed unobtrusively by the investigator. Data collected were both qualitative and quantitative and assisted in the analysis of facility similarities and differences. Patterns of common elements were analyzed within and between different facilities and locations. The results suggest that there are differences in the physical environments of LTCFs by location and the discussion offers suggestions about how the physical environments might be improved.;Key Words: Long-term Care Facilities, Asian elderly, Facility evaluation... |
