What evidence is there about the specific environmental needs of older people who are near the end of life and are cared for in hospices or similar institutions? a literature review.

Rigby, Janet and Payne, Sheila and Froggatt, Katherine (2010) What evidence is there about the specific environmental needs of older people who are near the end of life and are cared for in hospices or similar institutions? a literature review. Palliative Medicine, 24 (3). pp. 268-285. ISSN 1477-030X

Abstract

Relatively little is known about the type of physical environment which is needed and preferred by patients aged 65 and over, with a prognosis of 1 year or less, who are receiving care in hospitals, care homes and hospices, and their families and staff. A narrative literature review was conducted to identify and analyse evidence on this issue, with twenty-nine papers meeting the inclusion criteria. The patients were found to have a wide range of views on their environment, but there was some variation between the views of patients and those of their families and staff. Four main themes emerged: the physical environment should be ‘homely’; it should support patients’ need for social interaction and privacy; it should support the caring activities of staff, family members and patients; and it should allow opportunities for spiritual expression. It is evident that the physical environment contributes significantly to the quality of life of older people with a life-limiting illness, and there is a need for more research in this area. Regular assessment of patients’ environmental needs should form part of care planning.