Section 22-B3249. RESIDENT RECREATION AND SOCIAL AREAS

 

3249.1Each nursing unit shall have, on the same floor as the unit, social recreation spaces in the amount of twenty (20) square feet per the average number of residents in the unit.

 

3249.2Sound-insulated flexible partitions may be used to divide larger spaces.

 

3249.3Each social area may also be used for small group dining, if there exists other social space sufficient to accommodate the average number of residents who may wish to occupy it at any one time.

 

3249.4Each social area shall contain at least one (1) window providing natural light.

 

3249.5Whenever possible, each social area shall be located along walls that receive at least two (2) hours of direct sunlight a day.

 

3249.6Each social area shall be attractively furnished and attractively decorated.

 

3249.7Each social area may contain plants and pets of suitable temperament.

 

3249.8Furniture shall be arranged to facilitate small group conversation.

 

3249.9A refreshment station shall be located near or adjacent to each social area.

 

3249.10At least one (1) social area on each nursing unit shall be designated for quiet privacy and may be utilized by each resident and his or her visitor.

 

3249.11Each facility shall provide at least one (1) room large enough to accommodate residents and staff for special events.

 

3249.12The dining area may be used for social purposes when it can be shown that use of the room can be accommodated without interference with the facility's food services.

 

3249.13For each newly constructed facility and those where there has been a change in the configuration of facility space, the social area shall be large enough for more than ten (10) residents.

 

3249.14The facility shall make accessible to residents a semiprivate space where a telephone can be used.

 

3249.15At least one (1) telephone equipped with an amplifier shall be available to residents.

 

source

Notice of Final Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 473 (January 18, 2002).