Social connection in long-term care homes: a qualitative study of barriers and facilitators
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Understanding social connection barriers and facilitators in long-term care (LTC) homes is crucial. This study reveals key themes to improve resident well-being and quality of care in LTC settings.
Area Of Science
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Healthcare Quality
Background
- Social connection is a fundamental human need, vital for quality of life and health outcomes in long-term care (LTC) residents.
- LTC environments present unique challenges and opportunities for fostering social connection.
- Identifying factors that support or hinder social connection is essential for improving care.
Purpose Of The Study
- To identify barriers and facilitators to social connection for residents in long-term care homes.
- To inform interventions and policies aimed at enhancing social connection in this population.
Main Methods
- Qualitative study employing thematic analysis.
- Individual and group interviews conducted with 67 participants (residents, staff, family, friends).
- Recruitment from LTC homes in the United Kingdom and Canada.
Main Results
- Four key themes emerged: familiarization with LTC life, maintaining contact through physical/virtual access, deepening relationships through interaction, and person-centred care approaches.
- Familiarization involved counteracting institutionalization and increasing mobility.
- Person-centred approaches considered impairments and prioritized psychosocial needs.
Conclusions
- The study identified actionable barriers and facilitators to social connection in LTC.
- Findings can guide improvements in care policies, staff training, and interventions.
- Enhancing social connection is key to improving the quality of care and life for LTC residents.
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