[Bedriddenness and sociospatial participation-A reflection]

Area of Science:

• Sociology of space
• Spatial sociology
• Gerontology

Context:

• Immobility and bedriddenness significantly affect older adults' physical, psychological, and social well-being.
• Existing residential care facilities often present challenges to the participation of bedridden individuals.
• Understanding the sociospatial dynamics is crucial for improving the quality of life for immobile residents.

Purpose:

• To explore the applicability of spatial sociology concepts to analyze participation among bedridden individuals in residential care.
• To investigate how the arrangement of people and objects influences the participatory opportunities of bedridden residents.
• To identify contributions spatial sociology can make to enhancing the inclusion of bedridden people.

Summary:

• Spatial sociology, particularly Martina Löw's concept, frames social spaces as products of arranging people and things.
• Participatory opportunities are defined by residents' capacity to arrange elements versus the risk of being arranged.
• Analysis of nursing home case studies demonstrates how relational spaces and functional arrangements limit bedridden residents' agency.

Impact:

• Applying a spatial-sociological perspective highlights the consequences of spatial arrangements on perception and interaction.
• Limited freedom of action for bedridden residents necessitates reflection on institutional practices.
• Designing 'open' environments and critically examining sociospatial configurations can improve participation and well-being.