The quality of life in nursing homes has been a concern for a population which is aging quickly. Long-term care for the growing number of elderly people is a focal point for healthcare providers as well as residents and family members of the older adults.
Social engagement is a critical element in the structure of a nursing home facility.
Participation in social activity builds a sense of control that is often lost with institutionalization. The importance of social activities and exactly how activities are implemented varies with each institution. A clear method of studying the implications of the effects of social activity or disengagement of social activity is being studied more in-depth as the growth of nursing home populations increases. Nursing homes which measure and asses the residents physical, cognitive state as well as characteristics of the residents personality and interests are most likely able to implement social activities which increase sociability and life satisfaction. As Voelkl et al.