Abstract
This study examined gender differences in the effects of facility-level objective environment, resident-level subjective environment, and activity participation on older residents’ morale in LTC settings. This investigation included a nationally representative sample comprised 634 adults aged 60 years or older from 155 institutions in Taiwan. Random effects modeling was used to analyze the multilevel data. The analytical results found: 1.Perceived relationship with staff was the most prominent environmental determinant of morale for both males and females. 2.The presence of public kitchens and birthday party frequency was associated with males’ morale. 3.Having electronic message chairs, outdoor chairs and gardens, and full time social workers was related to females’ morale. 4.Engagement in leisure activities within institutions was more beneficial to males’ morale, while participation in interpersonal interaction activities yielded a greater association with females’ morale than other activities. Even residing in the same facility, the experiences and needs may differ between older males and females. Making LTC objective environment becomes more “home-like” can be particularly helpful for male residents’ morale. Public spaces and amenities that can promote interpersonal interactions can be especially advantageous for females. The relationship with staff is the key to boost both males and females’ morale. More efforts would be needed to foster positive interactions and mutual understanding between staff and residents. Also, activities should be designed with a consideration of cultural norms about gender roles in order to maximize the benefits of activity participation to residents of different genders.