Some Kiwis are failing to consult their older family members fully when deciding to move into residential care – leaving them devastated but willing to cooperate to avoid becoming a burden, a study has revealed.
The trend is having an impact on New Zealand’s elderly, with residents often left bored and lonely while navigating an at times “traumatic” transition, according to the University of Otago research.
The study undertook a process of interviewing older adults on their move into residential care, with Dr Myunik Panthi leading the process as part of her PhD.
It revealed most participants shared similar feelings on their move, which Panthi said is often “traumatic” for the older adults.
“The majority of participants reported that the decision of a move was done by their GP and family members and it was not their decision, implying that they didn’t want to come to a residential care facility.”
Speaking to 1News, Dr Panthi said Kiwis lack of preparation to move is the key problem in this area.
She said the majority of participants reported they didn’t think about their move, rather it happened following a medical emergency.
Residents report their experience
The study revealed one participant, Janet, 78, said it took six months to accept the residential care facility as her home and regretted wasting time by confining herself to her room.
She said: “It’s been a struggle, for the first six months I wouldn’t go out of my room or anything. I just didn’t cope at all.”
Meanwhile Edward, 75, said he missed his home and his wife, and once or twice a year he paid for a mobility van to take him home for visits.
“Once I am at home I don’t want to come back here.”
Despite the efforts of care staff to develop a home-like environment and provide facility-led activities, study participants were happier undertaking self-led activities such as charity or volunteer work, taking care of others, watching birds, or listening to the radio or music.
What families can do
Panthi said planning the move in advance would go a long way in helping the transition for their older relatives.
She added making a plan, involving the older adults while making the decision, letting them choose the facility they would like to go to, participating to familiarise them with the residential care environment and spending time with them as much as possible would all help.
If their relative is struggling, she said having a one-on-one conversation asking them to share their experiences would help validate how they feel.
What facilities can do
Panthi said residential care facilities should consider introducing resident-led programmes rather than expecting residents to fit into existing programmes.
The study found collaboration between policymakers, residential care managers and activity staff is important in developing programmes that are meaningful to residents, ease adaptation and reduce loneliness and boredom in residential care facilities.
It said staff and family support was also important for many participants during their transition, and the majority of participants reported that one or two visits from family each week helped them develop connection and meaning in their life.
“This study highlights the important role of family, friends and staff in easing the adaptation process and minimising the risk of loneliness and boredom.”
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