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Older peoples' experiences of living in a residential aged care facility in Australia
AIM: The objectives of the study were to investigate the lived experience of older people in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Australia, to explore their perceptions of their lives in RACFs and how care might be improved. METHODS: This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experience of older persons in RACFs across two Australian states. In-depth interviews regarding independence, dignity, autonomy, communication and relationships were conducted with 18 participants. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and thematically analysed. RESULTS: Three themes emerged reflecting the reality of RACF life for these participants: (i) loss of autonomy, dignity and control; (ii) valuing important relationships; and (iii) resigned acceptance. CONCLUSION: Older people were not included in decision-making and found it difficult to maintain their autonomy and dignity, and forge meaningful relationships. They traded their independence and dignity for the safety and assistance they needed; however, they accepted this trade-off with stoicism and remained positive.
History
Journal
Australas journal of ageingVolume
35Issue
3Pagination
E6 - E10Publisher
WileyLocation
Milton, Qld.Publisher DOI
eISSN
1741-6612Language
engPublication classification
C Journal article; C1 Refereed article in a scholarly journalCopyright notice
2016, AJA Inc.Usage metrics
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No categories selectedKeywords
aged careolder peoplephenomenologyquality of liferesidential facilitiesActivities of Daily LivingAge FactorsAgedAgingFemaleHomes for the AgedHumansInterpersonal RelationsInterviews as TopicMaleNursing HomesPersonal AutonomyPersonhoodPhilosophyQualitative ResearchQueenslandVictoriaScience & TechnologyLife Sciences & BiomedicineGeriatrics & GerontologyGerontologyQUALITY-OF-LIFEHOME
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