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The northern physical environment and the well-being of the elderly aged over 65 years

Abstract Objectives. The purpose was to describe the significance of the physical environment in supporting the well-being of the elderly aged over 65 years. The aim was to produce knowledge that will complement the knowledge-base of gerontologic nursing. Study design. The study was qualitative. Thirty-nine home-dwelling elderly persons aged over 65 were interviewed. Methods. The interviews (n = 39) were conducted with the thematic method. The data were analysed with methods of inductive content analysis. Results. The main threats of the northern physical environment to the well-being of the elderly are seasonal variation, temperature, snow, light variation and distances. The supportive characteristics of the northern environment are the natural environment, space, amiliarity with the physical space, cleanliness and safety. Conclusion. The characteristics of the northern physical environment seem to be significant for both urban and rural elderly people living in the northern part of Finland. The different aspects of the natural environment provide opportunities to relax, meet other people and do physical exercise, all of which are important factors of health promotion. (Int J Circumpolar Health 2005; 64(3):246–256)