Long-term care is changing.
The best approaches integrate

• healthcare
• architecture
• 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, together, these elements increase well-being. Residents experience improved mental and physical health, less loneliness, and overall enhanced quality of life. Families of people in care are happier. Staff experience greater job satisfaction and less stress. Organizations are better able to control virus spread, and to attract and retain staff.

Change is happening in piecemeal fashion, and there are practical examples in North America. Since all three elements are essential, a braided approach is vital.

Interested? Learn more.

Rudy P. Friesen is a retired architect who works with communities and organizations to transform long-term care for the well-being of all care partners through ethical design that supports normal living, humane care, and community connection. 

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