The Impact of the Physical Environment on the Autonomy of Older Adults in Residential Care: A Systematic Review

چکیده مقاله

The physical environment of residential care (RC) facilities can play a key role in supporting the autonomy of older adults. This systematic review examined which environmental features are linked to either facilitating or creating obstacles for autonomy, and how they influence residents’ ability to make and act on personal choices. Findings from 19 studies were grouped into four themes: spatial accessibility and flexibility; supportive and homelike design; safe and independent navigation; and environmental control and sensory comfort. An autonomy-supportive environment requires elements from all themes. Older adults need environments that align with their functional capacities and personal preferences. © 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.