The Role of Physical Environment in Supporting Person-centered Dining in Long-Term Care: A Review of the Literature

• Published in: American journal of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias 2013-08, Vol.28 (5), p.491-500
• Main Authors: Chaudhury, Habib, Hung, Lillian, Badger, Melissa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Current Topics in Research; Dementia - psychology; Dementia - therapy; Humans; Long-Term Care - psychology; Nursing Homes; Patient Care Team; Patient-Centered Care
• ISSN: 1533-3175; 1938-2731
• DOI: 10.1177/1533317513488923

The physical environment of dining rooms in long-term care facilities is increasingly recognized as an important catalyst in implementing a culture based on person-centered care philosophy. Mealtimes are important opportunities to support residents' personhood in care facilities. This article presents a critical review of the literature on evidence-based physical environmental interventions and examines their implications for creating a more person-centered dining environment, specifically for residents with dementia. The review identifies the role of a supportive dining environment to foster: a) functional ability, b) orientation, c) safety and security, d) familiarity and home-likeness, e) optimal sensory stimulation, f) social interaction, and g) privacy and personal control. It is clear from this review that there is a growing body of research to support the importance of certain physical environmental features in the dining context that can foster positive resident outcomes. The evidence indicates that well-designed physical settings play an important role in creating a person-centered dining environment to support best possible mealtime experience of residents. Gaps in the literature and directions for future research are discussed.