Showing papers by "Kevin McKee published in 2012"

Does the design of extra-care housing meet the needs of the residents? A focus group study

Abstract: The study objective was to explore the views of residents and relatives concerning the physical design of extra-care housing. Five focus groups were conducted with residents in four extra-care schemes in England. One focus group was carried out with relatives of residents from a fifth scheme. Schemes were purposively sampled to represent size, type, and resident tenure. Data were analysed thematically using NVivo 8. Two over-arching themes emerged from the data: how the building supports the lifestyle and how the building design affects usability. Provision of activities and access to amenities were more restrictive for residents with disabilities. Independent living was compromised by building elements that did not take account of reduced physical ability. Other barriers to independence included poor kitchen design and problems doing laundry. Movement around the schemes was difficult and standards of space and storage provision were inadequate. The buildings were too hot, too brightly lit and poorly ventilated. Accessible external areas enabled residents to connect with the outside world. The study concluded that, while the design of extra-care housing meets the needs of residents who are relatively fit and healthy, those with physical frailties and/or cognitive impairment can find the building restrictive resulting in marginalisation. Design across the dependency spectrum is key in meeting the needs of residents. Inclusive, flexible design is required to benefit residents who are ageing in situ and have varying care needs.

Older People's Quality of Life and Role of Home-Based Technology

Abstract: Background: Household devices may have a positive impact on daily lives by reducing the burden of several tasks and enriching social interaction. There are varieties of assistive devices such as alarms, sensors, detectors, and life style monitoring devices, which can help in compensating for the activity limitations caused by impairments. This study aimed to review the contribution that residential technology devices can make to older people’s lives. Methods: An open-ended literature review following the guidance of the Centre for Review and Dissemination was conducted to establish the current understanding of the topics by using clear and appropriate criteria to select or reject studies. The studies entered into the review were limited by language, topic, and date of publication. Results: The research literature indicated that residential facilities which appropriately are designed and supplied can have many benefits for older people such as increasing in-dependence, maximising physical and mental health, and improving their quality of life. Conclusion: Although most of the literature has explored the positive effects of technology devices on older adults’ social networks, independence, psychological well-being, and social status, the possibilities of negative consequences have been neglected. Keywords: Quality of life, Older people, Residential technology, Computer-mediated communication

Experiences of Extra Care Housing Residents Aged Fifty-Five and over with Home-Based Technology

Abstract: Technological interventions could help older people live independently. In this study with 160 people aged 55 and over who were living in extra care housing in England we aimed to explore awareness of, access to, attitudes towards availability, and use of home-based technological (HBT) devices, and factors that influence the use of devices. A quantitatively designed and structured questionnaire was developed for this study. The majority of new HBT devices were not available in living units or schemes. Moreover, most basic appliances and emergency call systems were used in the living units. We found that in order to increase the use of technological devices among the elderly, their perceptions, capabilities, attitudes, and needs should be assessed in the designing, planning, and supplying process.

Tackling Ageing Continence through Theory, Tools & Technology (TACT3)

Abstract: After dementia, nothing is more feared by older people than the loss of continence. It is often the reason many people enter care facilities and can contribute to the breakdown of caring relationships. This paper reports on a three-year research project funded by the UK New Dynamics of Aging programme, which has explored three key issues in the predicament of maintaining continence from the “user’s” perspective. Firstly, understanding how continence services operated by the UK National Health Service can be improved to offer cost effective benefits that encourage people to report this sometimes embarrassing condition with confidence. Secondly, working directly with the US Simon Foundation, the project has developed user-requested, assistive devices that target the most embarrassing aspects of the condition, namely issues of personal odor control and urine leakage from continence pads. Lastly, understanding the challenges of managing continence in daily living outside of the home, with particular reference to accessing publicly accessible toilet facilities. The paper will highlight the research that has provided the basis for innovative design solutions.

The effect of gender on strength training in older people : a Swedish population study

Abstract: Background: Physical exercise contributes to healthy ageing, and strength training has beenshown to improve independence in older people.Method: Six hundred older people wererandomly selected from ...

Psychological, health and social predictors of emotional and social loneliness in older people

Abstract: Psychological, health and social predictors of emotional and social loneliness in older people