How space impacts living conditions of older people? Exploring the concept of hospitality in conception of long-term care facilities for people with Alzheimer’s disease
Abstract
For a long time in France, long-term care facilities for people with from Alzheimer’s disease were limited to small units designed for their unique behavioral characteristics. The possibilities gradually expanded to improve their living conditions. Specialized establishments and, more recently, "innovative" projects have been developed with the aim to promote a logic of social and spatial integration. Using the concept of hospitality as a framework, this contribution aims to understand the link between the conditions under which older people are welcomed and cared for, and the spatial and architectural characteristics of long-term care facilities designed for a specific population. Based on eight case studies (dedicated units (2), specialized EHPADs (2) and innovative projects (4)) the methodology combines semi-directive interviews (42) and in-situ observations (200h) conducted from February, 2018 and June, 2019. Our results explore intersections between spatial analysis and gerontological knowledges to define hospitality in place. Hospitality appears to be controlled, within dedicated units; "autarcised" in the case of specialized EHPAD; and “included” in innovative projects. Hospitality also raises new considerations about people's residential trajectories and the (in)adaptation of their living environment. In conclusion, hospitality highlights the relationship between “space” and “age” through the role of architecture in living conditions of older people with or without Alzheimer’s disease: as a factor of change; as an inclusive element; and as a support for a rethought domesticity.