Quality of life in residential care

Supporting older adults in residential care extends far beyond meeting basic needs. True wellbeing arises from creating an environment that nurtures comfort, connection, purpose, and autonomy.



Kelley-Gillespie’s (2009) integrated model identifies six key components of quality of life — each interwoven, shaping how residents feel, think, and live each day.

1. Physical Well-being

Maintaining physical health and mobility is foundational to independence and confidence. Regular movement — from daily walks to gentle chair exercises — supports strength, balance, and circulation. A nutritious, varied diet and good sleep hygiene further enhance residents’ energy and vitality, enabling participation in daily life with ease.

2. Psychological Well-being

Emotional stability, resilience, and self-worth are core to psychological well-being. A supportive care culture that offers choice, recognition, and encouragement can strengthen self-esteem and reduce anxiety. Creating moments of joy, humour, and validation helps residents feel secure and valued.

3. Cognitive Well-being

Cognitive health supports memory, attention, and decision-making. Meaningful activities such as puzzles, reminiscence sessions, or storytelling can stimulate thinking and preserve mental agility. Promoting independence through cues and memory aids — like diaries or labelled photos — empowers residents to navigate daily routines confidently.

4. Social Well-being

Relationships form the heart of wellbeing in later life. Social well-being grows through meaningful connections — with peers, staff, family, and community. Shared mealtimes, group activities, and celebrations foster belonging, reducing loneliness and nurturing trust.

5. Spiritual Well-being

Spiritual well-being affirms life’s meaning and purpose. It may be expressed through faith, reflection, gratitude, or creativity. Offering quiet spaces, nature access, or spiritual support enables residents to connect with what brings peace, hope, and a sense of wholeness.

6. Environmental Well-being

A well-designed environment promotes safety, comfort, and orientation. Features such as natural light, familiar furnishings, colour contrast, and accessible outdoor spaces help residents feel grounded. Personalising rooms with photos, favourite colours, and keepsakes enhances identity and belonging.

In summary, quality of life in residential care is multidimensional — shaped by body, mind, spirit, relationships, and environment. By intentionally supporting each domain, care teams can create settings where older adults not only live, but truly thrive.

To find out how you can introduce Essence 52 to your nursing home and help improve the quality of life for your residents please fill out the contact form to arrange an online meeting to discuss your training needs. 

Until next time,

Liz 

(Based on Kelley-Gillespie, 2009)
 Kelley-Gillespie, N. (2009). An Integrated Conceptual Model of Quality of Life for Older Adults Based on a Synthesis of the Literature. Applied Research in Quality of Life, 4(3), 259–282.