Ageing in place – exploring the safety of the environment of Slovenian older adults

Abstract

Objective: The importance of subjective and objective living environment was investigated. Methods: A new questionnaire was developed, validated and distributed to community-dwelling adults in various Slovenian counties. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and t-tests in SPSS Statistics 24. Older adults ( N = 358), 33% men and 67% women, mean age 74.3 years, participated in the cross-sectional study. Results: Statistically significant differences (at 5% significance level) in subjective opinions of older adults regarding views on appropriate design of the living environment between the group with and without risk factors exist only for the statement that a thermostat to regulate room temperature should be placed in a visible and accessible location ( p = 0.014). Conclusion: The living environment has some risk factors, but they are not statistically significant between groups. The results may prompt occupational therapists to develop innovative strategies to facilitate occupational participation of users, increase participation in preventive services and obtain policy support.