In this study, a questionnaire survey of 309 nursing homes for the elderly and interviews with 10 of them were conducted.

The results are as follows:

1)　The nursing homes for the elderly, which is supposed to support independent living in the community, are actually functioning as facilities for transitioning to welfare facilities or as final residences.

2)　Building plans must be able to accommodate both residents with complex difficulties and those who are elderly and require heavy nursing care. Examples of such plans include all private rooms, wide corridors, and mechanical baths.