Factors related to perceived caring among older people residing in long-term care facilities: a cross-sectional study

Healthcare providers who exhibit caring behaviours promote quality of care. Theoretical and empirical models have promoted a three-dimensional paradigm of care perception. However, the perception of elderly residents in long-term care facilities related to caring has not been investigated.

This study explored factors related to the elderly's perception of healthcare providers' caring in long-term care facilities.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 461 elderly residents living in 57 long-term care facilities in southern Taiwan. A structured questionnaire included demographic information, facility characteristics and the 12-item Caring Scale for Institutionalized Elders. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to determine significant factors related to the elderly residents' caring perceptions.

A hierarchical regression model showed 49.9% of the variance in elderly's perception of caring. Significant related factors included resident's age, number of comorbidities, need for caring, time spent being cared for, bed-to-nurse staffing ratios and accreditation status.

Improved Registered Nurse staffing ratios with a higher level of accreditation status yield better perceptions of caring among residential elderly. Those with comorbid diseases and fewer caring needs have a higher perception of healthcare provider caring.

The related factors of elderly's perceived caring provide long-term care managers and nursing staff with beneficial information to develop strategies that can manage residents with high expected-care needs. Policies to improve the accreditation standards of long-term care facilities are needed.