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School of Architecture and Planning, Faculty of Engineering and Design, University of Auckland, New Zealand. , shga230@aucklanduni.ac.nz
Abstract: (42 Views)
Objectives: Despite well-documented criticism of the medicalized model in nursing homes, this approach continues to dominate spatial organization and residents' lived experience in Iran. This study critically analyzes the spatial design of nursing homes in Tehran and examines its impact on the quality of life of semi-independent residents.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative comparative study was conducted in six nursing homes in Tehran. Data were collected through observation, architectural surveys, and semi-structured interviews with residents, caregivers, and managers. Data analysis was based on a framework comprising spatial characteristics of a desired residential care environment, drawn from successful international examples and the United Nations principles on older people’s rights.
Findings: A total of 19 elderly individuals (mean age 75.16 years, SD=7.57; 63% female, 37% male) and 13 staff members were interviewed. Findings revealed that many existing spatial elements were designed not to support the human experience of the elderly but rather to facilitate medical control and care.
Conclusion: Current nursing home designs directly reflect a medicalized and control-oriented approach to elderly care. Without fundamental change to this paradigm, minor architectural modifications cannot adequately address the real needs of residents. A profound shift in care models is essential to enable architectural spaces to effectively support independence, quality of life, and the comprehensive needs of older adults.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative comparative study was conducted in six nursing homes in Tehran. Data were collected through observation, architectural surveys, and semi-structured interviews with residents, caregivers, and managers. Data analysis was based on a framework comprising spatial characteristics of a desired residential care environment, drawn from successful international examples and the United Nations principles on older people’s rights.
Findings: A total of 19 elderly individuals (mean age 75.16 years, SD=7.57; 63% female, 37% male) and 13 staff members were interviewed. Findings revealed that many existing spatial elements were designed not to support the human experience of the elderly but rather to facilitate medical control and care.
Conclusion: Current nursing home designs directly reflect a medicalized and control-oriented approach to elderly care. Without fundamental change to this paradigm, minor architectural modifications cannot adequately address the real needs of residents. A profound shift in care models is essential to enable architectural spaces to effectively support independence, quality of life, and the comprehensive needs of older adults.
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