Care Home Provision in Southeast Asian Countries : A Systematic Review

Aim This systematic review consolidates research evidence showing how the physical and social environments contribute to the experiences and wellbeing of older adults living in Residential Care Homes (RCHs) in Southeast Asia (SEA). It aimed to uncover new insights by exploring the impact of the significant variations, largely culturally driven, in the expectations of older residents across the region. Background The growing demand for RCHs in SEA is occurring at a time when a lack of understanding of the quality of the care environment is evident. Most published studies of residential care for older adults pertain to care in Western settings. Little is known about the relevance of these findings for SEA settings where culturally-driven expectations and the physical and social care environments are very different. Method A systematic search of the literature published between 2000 to 2023 was undertaken to capture research evidence on: (1) the views of older residents on the physical, and social environments contributing to their own wellbeing and experience living in a RCH, and (2) the views of the RCH providers on the same. Results Of the 35 reviewed studies, sixteen are qualitative in nature, seventeen are quantitative, and two are mixed-method incorporating both qualitative and quantitative aspects. The SEA countries covered in the review are Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea, Philippines, India, and China. Findings indicate that both constructed and natural surroundings significantly impact residents' life experiences and overall wellbeing. Social aspects, including interactions and relationships within the care settings, appear vital for residents' quality of life. It appears that cultural subtleties in the design and usage of these environments highlight how regional differences in perceptions of privacy and dignity greatly affect wellbeing outcomes. Implication and Conclusion The review highlights how cultural differences influence the design and use of residential care home environments, with regional variations in concepts of privacy and dignity significantly affect well-being outcomes. These distinctions between the SEA model and Western approaches offer deeper insights into the culturally-specific factors contributing to the success of RCHs in SEA. Data from other primary stakeholders of healthcare systems will help improve care. Gaining such understanding is crucial for formulating care practices that are both culturally attuned and effective, tailored specifically to meet the distinctive needs of diverse older communities living in a RCH in SEA.