Quality of life of older adults in continuing care retirement communities

Quality of life (QOL) in continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) as it relates to their unique environments and contexts is examined from the perspective of older adults in the light of the various changes that take place in later life. The interplay between older adults and their environment is considered, with a specific focus on the CCRC as a long-term care environment that may facilitate or hinder older adults’ QOL. Three types of environments or contexts are considered: the physical environment, which concerns the size of the apartment, the location of the setting, the lighting and acoustics among other things; the social environment, which is characterised by the social network and sense of community in the CCRC; and the care environment, concerning the person-centred care or consumer-centred care approach facilitated by the CCRC. Measurement tools used to assess QOL in CCRC environments are discussed, and recommendations for research and practice are provided.