The influence of the built environment in enacting a household model of residential aged care for people living with a mental health condition: A qualitative post-occupancy evaluation

This study undertakes a spatial analysis of an Australian aged care setting where residents receive person-centred support in specially-designed home-like environment. Focus groups were conducted with staff to explore the impact built environment new residential that has implemented Household Model for people living mental health conditions. Drawing on Actor-Network Theory and proxemics, we mapped how supports improved behaviours practices four areas: food preparation dining, sleep self-care, site layout, relationships. • The is key successfully delivering care. A lens scale (proxemics) useful analysing effects Dining, relationships, sleep, hygiene, social connections community participation are all affected by Staff influenced at range scales (bathrooms /bedrooms, layout neighbourhood it located within). can be considered active participant caregiving activities (illustrated here as actant within Actor Network network).