| Popis: |
The study reported within this thesis sought to better understand nursing home placement from multiple perspectives. Using a two stage approach, data were collected from semi-structured interviews with 37 people who had assisted a close relative to move into a nursing home, together with case studies in three nursing homes which explored how relatives are supported in maintaining their caring role in this new context. Data analysis revealed three phases to the transition: 'making the best of it'; 'making the move' and 'making it better', with relatives' experiences across these phases being understood in terms of five continua, reflecting the extent to which they felt they were: operating 'under pressure' or not; 'in the know' or 'working in the dark; 'working together' or 'working alone'; 'in control of events' or not, and 'supported' or 'unsupported' both practically and emotionally. Data from the case studies demonstrated the utility of these factors in understanding the experiences of relatives, residents and staff working in the care homes. In particular, the extent to which carers were able to meet their ultimate goal, that of ensuring 'best care' for their relative was influenced by these factors and the type of 'community' operating in the home. Analysis identified three types of community within the care homes studied: the controlled community; the cosmetic community; and the complete community. Findings suggest that the 'complete community' is consistent with the most positive experiences for older people, for family caregivers and for staff, and therefore promotes 'best care'. The ways in which staff, carers and older people can help to forge a complete community are considered. |
