Long-term care is changing at home and abroad.
The best approaches integrate healthcare, architecture,
and community planning.
Rudy P. Friesen, retired architect, consultant
Elements of Exemplary Long-term Care
Normal Living Environment
Multi-skilled Care Teams
Community Integration
There is compelling evidence that these elements are essential all around. Residents experience improved mental and physical health, less loneliness, and overall enhanced quality of life. Their families are happier. Staff experience greater job satisfaction and less stress. Organizations are better able to control virus spread.
While there are practical examples in North America, change has only begun, and mostly in piecemeal fashion. Since all three elements are essential, a braided approach is vital.
Interested? Learn more.
Rudy P. Friesen is a retired architect who researches best practices, teaches courses, makes presentations, and consults with leaders, organizations, and communities that are keen to change long-term care.
The best approaches integrate healthcare, architecture,
and community planning.
Rudy P. Friesen, retired architect, consultant
Elements of Exemplary Long-term Care
Normal Living Environment
- Small, self-contained homes with 6-10 residents per household
- Living and dining areas, full kitchens, and private bedrooms with en-suites
- Familiar surroundings, people, and rhythms, plus flexible schedules and family dining
- Access to outdoor areas, nature, and surrounding community
Multi-skilled Care Teams
- Consistent, empowered staff that work in teams
- Provide first aid, CPR, cooking, housekeeping, laundry, management, and home maintenance
- Provide companionship and tailored care, and implement resident-directed care plans
- Engage in daily living activities, manage risk with dignity, and prioritize well-being
Community Integration
- Homes are embedded in urban centres, residential neighbourhoods, and walkable downtowns
- From single homes to multi-household facilities
- Residents are able to participate in all facets of community life and feel they belong
- Intergenerational connections are prioritized
There is compelling evidence that these elements are essential all around. Residents experience improved mental and physical health, less loneliness, and overall enhanced quality of life. Their families are happier. Staff experience greater job satisfaction and less stress. Organizations are better able to control virus spread.
While there are practical examples in North America, change has only begun, and mostly in piecemeal fashion. Since all three elements are essential, a braided approach is vital.
Interested? Learn more.
Rudy P. Friesen is a retired architect who researches best practices, teaches courses, makes presentations, and consults with leaders, organizations, and communities that are keen to change long-term care.
