Relationship between the Physical Environment, Services of Geriatric Homes and Elderly Satisfaction at Cairo Governorate, MAHMOUD A. EL-SHEIKH, NAWAL A. FOUAD and HEBA M. SHARAA
Abstract
Background: Most problems that face the elderly living in geriatric homes are due to poor physical environment and inadequate services provided.
The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the physical environment, services of geriatric homes and elderly satisfaction at Cairo Governorate. A descriptive correlational research design was utilized in this study.
Setting: 7 geriatric homes were selected randomly from different strata at Cairo Governorate.
The sample included the 7 geriatric homes and their 352 residents. Four tools were used to collect data pertinent to the study: First tool: Demographic characteristics of the elderly questionnaire. Second tool: Geriatric home's physical envi-ronment observational checklist. Third tool: Data related to geriatric homes and its services provided to elderly. Fourth tool: Elderly satisfaction scale regarding the physical envi-ronment and services.
Results of the study indicated that, the level of the physical environment of the unsubsidized geriatric homes is accepted, while it is poor in the subsidized one. The majority of services provided in all geriatric homes are poor. The elderly residing in the subsidized geriatric home and the unsubsidized one that provides care to independent elderly only are satisfied and strongly satisfied regarding the physical environment and the provided services, while the elderly residing in the unsub-sidized geriatric homes are neutral and strongly dissatisfied.
The study concluded that, there is no relationship between the physical environment, services of geriatric homes and the levels of elderly satisfaction.
The study recommended that the national standards should be compatible with international standards and should be applied by Ministry of Social Solidarity in all geriatric homes to ensure better living standards and care for the elderly.