What characteristic defines separate units in a residential care home relative to kitchen proximity?

The characteristic that defines separate units in a residential care home regarding kitchen proximity is that units must be within 175 feet of the kitchen. This distance is set to ensure that all residents can receive meals in a timely and efficient manner, which is critical for their health and well-being.

Maintaining a distance of 175 feet allows for a practical arrangement where staff can easily transport food and assist residents with meal service, while also considering safety and accessibility standards. This distance ensures that in terms of operational efficiency, emergency procedures, and staff responsiveness to residents' needs, appropriate measures can be upheld within the residential care environment. The guidelines such as these are often outlined in regulations to promote quality standards in the care provided to residents.