Part III Site Identification and Analysis

This chapter discusses site selection that aligns with the goals and objectives, incorporating
salutogenic principles as the research focus. The research aims to contribute to the well-being of
all users of the nursing home facility. The next section of the chapter identifies the site selection
process, site evaluation and analysis, and site development options.

Chapter III.1 Site Selection Process

III.1.1 Criteria for Site Selection
Selecting the right location for a nursing home involves careful consideration of various
factors to ensure that the facility can meet the needs of its residents and provide a safe
and supportive environment. In addition, with a research focus on salutogenesis, various
site criteria should be considered to ensure alignment with the principles of
salutogenesis. Here are some key site criteria to be considered when selecting a location
for a nursing home:
Criteria Justification
1. Proximity to The WHO advocates the importance of healthcare accessibility for aging
Healthcare facilities populations. The emphasis on proximity to healthcare facilities for
nursing homes is a consensus among healthcare organizations,
regulatory bodies, and professionals specializing in geriatric care. It is
rooted in the principles of providing timely and quality medical care to
older adults, ensuring their safety, and promoting overall well-being.
2. Demographics Influencing the facility's ability to meet resident needs. Key factors
include understanding the aging population, predicting demand based
on growth, tailoring services to health conditions, addressing cultural
diversity, assessing affordability, ensuring proximity to family support,
recognizing ethnic backgrounds for cultural competence, evaluating
housing situations, forecasting specialized service demand, and aligning
services with community needs. This ensures the facility is well-suited to
the local population, enhancing its success (PSA, 2016).
3. Nursing Homes Recognizing the presence of existing nursing homes when deciding on a
Location Data new site is a strategic and practical approach. It allows for thoughtful
planning, avoids unnecessary competition, identifies areas of need, and
contributes to the overall enhancement of healthcare services in each
community (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), 2018).
4. Zoning Regulations The analysis of land use data which identified the local land use within
the region, looking at public recreation, mixed-use, and residential sites
to try and form a connection. Designating buffer zones between nursing
 homes and adjacent residential or commercial areas to mitigate
potential conflicts (DOH Guidelines, 2019).
5. Accessibility and Proximity to main roads and public transport ensures easy access for
Transportation residents with mobility challenges. Swift access to emergency services is
crucial for timely care. Good transportation enhances family and visitor
accessibility, promoting social connectivity.

An accessible location aids staff recruitment and retention with

convenient commuting. Easy access to suppliers supports smooth
nursing home operation. Community integration is facilitated, enabling
residents to participate in local activities. Public transportation options
and efficient traffic management reduce overall transportation costs,
vital for sustainability (DOH Guidelines, 2019).
6. Flexibility for Future The site's adaptability to changing regulations ensures ongoing
Expansion compliance with evolving healthcare standards. Flexibility supports the
integration of technological advancements and facility upgrades without
disrupting operations. It allows the nursing home to respond to shifting
community needs, including the potential addition of specialized care
units.
Moreover, a flexible site facilitates collaborations, offers financial
sustainability through phased growth, enhances resilience to unforeseen
challenges, and aligns with the nursing home's long-term strategic
goals. In essence, a forward-thinking approach to site selection ensures
continued relevance and the ability to provide quality services over time
(DOH Guidelines, 2019).
7. Cost of Living Influences affordability, ensuring accessibility for a diverse demographic.
Lower living costs contribute to the financial viability of the facility,
easing operational burdens. A reasonable cost of living enhances staff
recruitment and retention, attracting qualified personnel and improving
overall care quality. Residents' quality of life is positively impacted,
considering housing, transportation, and amenities.
Accessibility for families and visitors is improved in areas with lower
living expenses, fostering social connections. Community support and
integration are facilitated, promoting a sense of belonging. Economic
decisions related to establishment, budgeting, and financial planning are
informed by understanding the local cost of living, ensuring the overall
success and sustainability of the private nursing home.
8. Availability of A qualified staff contributes to high-quality care, meeting residents'
Skilled Workforce needs, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Reputation
for a skilled workforce attracts and retains talented professionals,
enhancing the overall stability and quality of services. Access to
specialized expertise enables the provision of diverse care services for
residents with complex needs.
Proximity to educational opportunities ensures continuous training for
staff, keeping them updated on best practices. A stable workforce
fosters a positive work environment, reduces turnover, and maintains
institutional knowledge, contributing to effective emergency
preparedness.
Salutogenic
9. Climate Suitable climates for nursing home sites often include temperate regions
Considerations with moderate temperatures, adequate sunlight, and minimal extremes
in weather conditions:
 Health and Comfort of Residents: Extreme temperatures,
excessive heat, or cold can pose health risks. A mild and
temperate climate is often preferred.
 Therapeutic Benefits: Certain climates, such as those with
abundant sunlight. Natural light and sunshine for mood
enhancement, vitamin D synthesis, and overall mental health.
 Operational Considerations: Climate can affect the operational
aspects, including energy costs, heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC) requirements.
 Emergency Preparedness: Areas prone to natural disasters such
as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires may pose risks to the safety.
 Accessibility and Transportation: Extreme weather conditions,
such as heavy snowfall or intense heat, can impact
transportation and accessibility for residents, staff, and visitors.
A moderate climate promotes ease of movement and reduces
potential disruptions in transportation services.

10. Tranquil Fosters a peaceful living environment, reducing stress and enhancing
Environment the quality of life for residents. Tranquil surroundings have been linked
to improved health outcomes, aiding in relaxation, and supporting
mental and physical well-being. This environment promotes better social
interaction, creating a conducive space for meaningful conversations
and shared activities among residents.
It positively influences sleep quality, aids in memory care, and reduces
agitation, particularly for residents with cognitive impairments. The
 benefits extend to staff, reducing workplace stress and contributing to a
compassionate caregiving environment. Moreover, a tranquil setting
enhances the facility's appeal, creating an attractive and homelike
atmosphere, while providing a suitable backdrop for therapeutic and
recreational activities, further contributing to residents' engagement and
enjoyment.
11. Eco- Eco-friendly Site:
accommodating site,  Sustainability: Locations that minimize the ecological footprint of
Ground soil conditions, the nursing home and contribute to overall environmental
and topography conservation.
 Energy Efficiency: site allows for the implementation of energy-
efficient design and construction practices. Utilizing renewable
energy sources, energy-efficient building materials, and
environmentally conscious technologies to reduce the facility's
energy consumption.

Ground soil condition: Sufficient stability and bearing capacity to support

12. Safe and Secure
Environment
13. Accessibility to
Community Resources
structural loads, uniformity to prevent differential settlement, and low
susceptibility to erosion. Additionally, good drainage characteristics,
suitability for construction practices, and compatibility with chosen
foundation types are crucial considerations.
Topography: Flat or gently sloping terrain for easy mobility, minimal
grading needs, and BP. 344 compliance. Effective stormwater
management prevents water-related issues, while the topography
enhances aesthetics with outdoor spaces and scenic views. Hazard
avoidance, minimal earthwork, and compatibility with construction
practices ensure a safe, cost-effective, and well-designed facility.
A hospital and other health facilities shall be so located that it is readily
accessible to the community and reasonably free from undue noise,
smoke, dust, foul odor, flood, and shall not be located adjacent to
railroads, freight yards, children's playgrounds, airports, industrial
plants, disposal plants.
Proximity to parks, cultural centers, and recreational facilities enhances
their quality of life and provides opportunities for social engagement.
The site's closeness to healthcare services and cultural institutions
ensures convenient access to additional support and maintains
connections with cultural or religious communities. This inclusivity
fosters a supportive living environment. Access to nearby dining,
shopping options, and transportation facilities contributes to residents'
 independence and overall satisfaction.
14. Staff Training and Prioritizing a positive work environment and ongoing training for staff in
Well-being a private nursing home supports the delivery of high-quality care,
enhancing resident satisfaction. Emphasizing well-being aids in
recruitment, reduces turnover, and ensures continuous care for
residents. Providing adequate amenities helps mitigate burnout, creating
a compliant, efficient, and supportive environment. Additionally,
proximity to educational opportunities contributes to staff training,
knowledge retention, and effective emergency preparedness.
15. Supportive Local Local policies ensure regulatory compliance, streamline the permitting
Policies process, and provide flexibility in land use, promoting accessibility for
residents and caregivers. Policies encouraging community integration
foster positive relationships with the local community, while economic
incentives enhance the facility's financial viability and long-term
sustainability. Collaboration with local services, backed by supportive
policies, enhances safety and well-being. Additionally, policies promoting
public awareness reduce stigma, fostering a positive environment for
the nursing home's establishment and operation.
16. Access to Healthy Access to local farmers' markets, grocery stores, and community-
Food Options supported agriculture enhances community engagement for residents.
Involvement in food-related activities, such as cooking classes or outings
to local markets, contributes to a holistic and socially active living
environment.

IIII.1.2 Site Option Description

III.1.3 Site Selection and Justification

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/fe5d2b7d3a5b4fb8b7f6a8d4fbeea633

LGA Boundaries
Land Use
Population (by age)
Hospital Locations
Aged Care Home Locations
Transportation