The Importance of Personal Possessions for the Development of a Sense of Home of Nursing Home Residents |
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| Authors: | J van Hoof M L Janssen C M C Heesakkers W van Kersbergen L E J Severijns L A G Willems |
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| Institution: | 1. Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Fontys EGT—Centre for Healthcare and Technology, Institute of Allied Health Professions, Eindhoven, The NetherlandsJoost.vanhoof@fontys.nl;3. Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Fontys EGT—Centre for Healthcare and Technology, Institute of Nursing, Section of Applied Gerontology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACTPersonal possessions of nursing home residents can contribute to their sense of home. This study investigated which of the personal belongings were considered most important, and if these items indeed contributed to a sense of home. A qualitative research was conducted with 27 nursing home residents. Photographs, paintings, and pieces of furniture are objects with sentimental value. The television set is valued for its practical function. Residents of larger rooms have more flexibility in bringing along personal items, including pieces of furniture. The results of this study can be used for the design of nursing homes or for making informed choices during the process of institutionalization. |
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| Keywords: | sense of home nursing home possessions personal belongings furniture pictures paintings television |
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