Views on dignity in providing health care for older people

The aim of this study was to explore the salience and meaning of dignity and dignified care for care providers and the implications for the proviosion of care. The project forms part of an international study being undertaken in different European countries comparing health and social care workers' views on dignity.

Focus groups were chosen as the primary method of data collection. Twelve focus groups were carried out involving a total of 52 participants representing a range of occupational groups.

All participants stated that dignity and respect were important for people of all age groups. The evidence that emerged from these focus groups showed that, in spite of the appropriate intentions of providers, older people were not consistently provided with dignified care.

In order to ensure dignity in providing care for older people, tasks need to be organised around older people's needs and time frames. Without such changes there is a danger that 'institutional ageism' will persist in the health service.