Residents' Occupancy of Lounges and Hallways in Korean Skilled Nursing Facilities for the Elderly

The purpose of this study was to provide basic information regarding the planning of lounge and hallway areas for skilled nursing facilities for the elderly, given that residents spend much of their time in these areas. This study examined Korean elderly residents' occupancy and behavior in lounges and hallways in order to analyze how plan type, spatial composition, and equipment affect residents. To do this, observations were conducted in five facilities that were provided to the elderly at no charge. Results indicate that a central garden offers a wide hallway area that can be used not only for strolling but also for list of activities; at the same time, it can reduce the overall rate of inactivity. A shorter distance between the lounge and hallway on the opposite side is likely to help better disperse residents' throughout the facility. Hallway corners have potential for activities that may require sofas, tables, or equipment for individual activities; they could also be used for planned interaction programs or unplanned collaboration on the part of small groups of residents.