PurposeInitial briefs (programs) were examined in order to obtain an overview of current practice in documenting the briefing process for new health care buildings in Sweden.Design/methodology/approachAn audit instrument was developed and used to examine briefs for the content and quality of information and to determine whether and to what extent the information was comprehensive and patient‐oriented.FindingsThe results indicate that few strategic briefs make use of evidence to support their statements. Moreover, few briefs had an explicitly patient‐focused goal for the project or measurable outcomes.Originality/valueThis new audit approach can be applied in various organisations and over time to improve the briefing process and create clearer goals and guidelines.

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The method can support participants in design teams to focus more on their healthcare organization, their care activities, and their aims rather than focusing on detailed layout solutions. This clarification is important when decisions about the design are discussed and prepared and will most likely lead to greater readiness for future building process.

Our aim was to explore enablers and barriers in ordinary housing for older people in care. We systematically searched Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for relevant published research and gray material. The search resulted in a final sample of eight publications, four of which focused on accessibility for older people with dementia. Thematic analysis resulted in two themes: safety and accessibility. Future studies should focus on modifications to ordinary housing to achieve safe and comfortable environments for people who want to age in place and those who provide them with care.

Built environment, elderly, planning, satisfaction, staff.