Physical Environment in Nursing Homes and the Psychological Adaptation of Healthcare Providers in Palestine

Abstract

Background: A supportive physical environment in nursing homes can lead to positive outcomes, yet it is rarely examined. The purpose of this study was to address this gap and examine the levels and the relationship between the suitability of the physical environment in nursing homes and the psychological adaptation of healthcare providers. Methods: We employed a descriptive cross-sectional design using convenience sampling to recruit 140 healthcare providers working in nursing homes in Palestine. A self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data which consisted of the Staff Perception of Residential Care Environments (SPORE) instrument, the Psychological Adaptation Scale (PAS), and select demographic variables. Data collection took place from November to December 2024. Pearson’s coefficient was used to examine the correlation between the suitability of the physical environment and the psychological adaptation, and multiple linear regression was used to identify the predictors of psychological adaptation. Findings: We observed that a minimally favorable physical environment was associated with moderate psychological adaptation among workers. A positive correlation was found between the suitability of the physical environment and workers’ psychological adaptation (r=.742, p<.001). The scores of two subscales of physical environment (Resident/Public Facilities [β=.366, p=.002] and General Care Environment [β=.628, p<.001]) were positive predictors of psychological adaptation. Conclusions/Application to Practice: Improved physical environments in nursing homes appear to positively influence healthcare providers’ psychological adaptation. Policymakers are encouraged to establish and enforce regulations that enhance the physical environments in nursing homes, which could ultimately promote the well-being of both healthcare providers and residents.