Supporting Aging-in-Place: Drivers and Desired Outcomes of a Healing Environment for Older Adults in Block Spaces of High-Density Cities

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to develop a comprehensive multidimensional framework by identifying the key drivers and components associated with the health of older people in healing environments, and to apply this framework in high-density city block spaces, creating opportunities for aging in place. Background: Effective theoretical and practical research frameworks are necessary to determine how to best support older adults in high-density city areas as they face aging-related challenges. Methods: The methodological approach involved bibliometric analysis (SciMAT) and systematic literature review of approximately 4446 articles related to rehabilitation settings and older adults. The review focused on literature that developed concepts and research frameworks and provided an empirical foundation. Results: The review identified four types of drivers for a healing environment for older individuals in high-density city blocks (HEOI-HCBs): self-environment, interpersonal, physical, and informational environments. These drivers were linked to eight desirable outcomes: initiative acquisition, shared vision, trust, empathy, integrity, systematicity, networking, and perceived usefulness. Conclusion: The drivers and outcomes formed the HEOI-HCBs framework, each representing a distinct dimension of the HEOI-HCBs concept. This study and the resulting framework facilitate the application and understanding of healing environments.