Safety and ergonomics in home bourd elderly adults: an application of person environment fit theory in Malaysia

Introduction: Rapid ageing is a worldwide phenomenon. In Asia, including Malaysia, population of aged people is growing. As increasing of average age of population and many problems of elderly people, modification of their living environment is mandatory, According to person-Environment Fit theory; elderly people need to live in a safe environment. Such an environment buries least risk factors and promotes the quality of life in elderly people. Methods and Materials: In this research, 386 old community- dwellers in urban area in Malaysia were randomly selected. The tools of this survey were an In-depth interview, a checklist for home visit and a questioner in regard to subjects, level of satisfaction from safety and ergonomics of their living environment. Results: Based on the results of this research, in 6 main parts of homes, including living room, bedroom, bathroom, toilet, stairs and kitchen main causes of UN safety were small space, placement, uneven floor, slippery floor and lighting. Conclusion: Providing Person-Environment fit promotes quality of life and level of satisfaction in elderly people. In order to achieve these objectives, it is recommended that home designers use appropriate door knobs, not slippery floor, installing grabbers in rooms stairs, toilet, etc and removing uneven floors to promote independence, safety and satisfaction in elderly people.