The role of architecture in long-term care facilities

Abstract

The adaptation of residential social centers to the Deinstitutionalization strategy requires a series of changes and transformations that affect the physical space where the daily lives of the individuals who inhabit and use it take place. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of architectural limitations for people with disabilities living in institutional settings. To achieve this, we employed the method of inductive thematic analysis in 24 interviews and 2 focus groups conducted with a total of 45 individuals from three Spanish centers (including healthcare professionals, technicians, service users, and family members). The results are organized into four main themes: 1) Building’s relationship with the exterior; 2) Outdated facilities and maintenance issues; 3) Derived insecurities; and 4) Organizational and structural criteria. Ultimately, the analyzed centers exhibit serious deficiencies that limit the autonomy of individuals with or without disabilities who reside in or use them. Further studies are necessary to promote typologies, functional programs, and design criteria based on evidence, aligned with public policies, that foster autonomy and independence for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, there is a need to promote greater engagement with the community and surrounding environment, as well as a more ergonomic and healthy design for all individuals, including the staff working in these facilities and amenities.