https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128478 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 03:36:01 GMT 2026-04-12T03:36:01Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/132784 Title: Bringing men in! : the lived experience of old men carers for their spouse in Malta Abstract: In contrast to other stages in the life course, in old age, as husbands/partners retire from paid work, they become more available to care for their loved ones. It has been shown that in later life, the gender distribution of carers changes as the ratio of men to women carers increases. Yet, notwithstanding a recent growth in the number of international studies exploring old men in care roles, this sub-cohort of carers remains by far overlooked locally. Hence, this qualitative study set out to addresses this gap within local research. Through interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study sought to explore the lived experiences of Maltese community-dwelling old men spousal cares and to find out how they negotiate their role within the feminised context of care. Data were collected through thirty semi- structured interviews with fifteen participants. All participants were actively engaged in care work during data collection. Some of the participants were taking care of a wife living with dementia whereas others were providing care to a wife with physical limitations. Data analysis revealed six group experiential themes and various sub-themes which shed light on various facets ranging from how old men embarked on the care work journey, how they espoused their husbands’ and carers’ role, the ways manhood impacted how they approached and coped with care work, the value of meaning and change in intimate relationships, the significance of familial and formal sources of support and the effects of COVID-19 as an extraordinary circumstance. Most of the participants echoed a variety of health issues that they themselves were experiencing, making their life as carers more complicated. Several recommendations including improving awareness amid formal and informal support care providers on this imperceptible nonetheless invaluable and growing sub-cohort of carers are outlined. Description: Ph.D.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/132784 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129075 Title: The psycho-social effects of retirement in older Maltese men Abstract: Research suggests retirement can impact mental well-being and social interactions. This study focuses on older Maltese men to explore their unique experiences post-retirement, aiming to understand their specific challenges and provide targeted support. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the psycho-social effects of retirement in Maltese older men and how retirement, on the whole, impacted the lives of the older Maltese men. By delving into the participants’ narratives, the research sought to uncover the underlying themes and nuances shaping the retirement experiences of older Maltese men. Method: Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study conducted individual analyses of face-to-face interviews with retired Maltese men, identifying recurring themes and patterns across participants. Through interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the research provided a comprehensive understanding of the psycho-social impacts of retirement on this specific demographic. Pseudonyms were used to ensure participant anonymity and confidentiality. Results: The analysis revealed three superordinate themes: (1) the transition to retirement, (2) emotional well-being post-retirement, and (3) social connections in retirement. Subordinate themes highlighted the diverse range of experiences and perspectives among the older person participants. The findings underscored the complexity of retirement experiences for older Maltese men, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and social engagement in the post-retirement phase. Conclusion: The study contributed to valuable insights into the psycho-social effects of retirement on older Maltese men, shedding light on the nuanced challenges and adjustments faced by retirees in Malta. Recommendations were made for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community organizations to provide tailored support and interventions to enhance the well-being and social integration of older male retirees in Malta. Description: M. Ger.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129075 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129074 Title: Introducing music in rehabilitative pathways with older persons living in Maltese care homes : speech language pathologists’ perspectives Abstract: Background: Music, a universal art form, surpasses verbal expression in communicating emotions. It has a positive effect on older persons' well-being by improving their ability to express themselves and provide health advantages. Since, older persons are more prone to vulnerability that results in a decline in their functionality because of their prevailing fragility, this emphasises the significance of rehabilitation as part of their medical care. Moreover, incorporating music into rehabilitation care enhances their quality of life and overall well-being. Aim: After identifying a gap in the literature, this study aimed to explore the role and perception of Speech-Language Pathologists in the integration of music as part of interventions with older persons living within Maltese long-term care facilities. Method: A qualitative research approach made it possible to examine the issue through multiple lenses which improved the comprehension of speech-language pathologists' perspectives and the use of music with older persons in Maltese long-term care settings. The researcher determined that the most effective method for analysing the data gathered, was thematic analysis. A one-time, face-to-face focus group which involved five speech-language pathologists employed by the Active Ageing Community Care was used to gather data. Results: The focus group conducted with the participants yielded a total of five main themes: (1) Effectiveness of Music, (2) Integrating music in rehabilitation sessions, (3) Challenges involving prioritisation, diversity and group forming, (4) Self-reflection and (5) Facing limitations and barriers. Respective sub-themes emerged. Conclusion: This study was noteworthy since there is a dearth of local and international research on speech-language pathologists' first-hand experiences and perspectives regarding music and older persons in long-term care facilities. Speech-language pathologists were able to express their thoughts, feelings, and challenges that they encounter on a daily basis. To help older persons receive the necessary assistance, legislators, institutions, and healthcare professionals were given recommendations. It is suggested, that future research ought to include more Speech Language Pathologists and offer training courses to improve their expertise. The optimal utilisation of music for older persons could be achieved through funding, multidisciplinary team collaboration, and further education. Description: M. Ger.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129074 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128950 Title: The impact of religion on older housebound persons living in the Maltese community Abstract: Background: While a significant number of older persons lead an independent lifestyle, many older persons are confined to their homes due to disabilities. Although religion plays a central role in the lives of many older persons, and has been identified as a significant coping mechanism for older persons, especially during times of stress and crisis, there is dearth of research, both international and local, on the impact of religion on older housebound persons. The confinement experienced by older housebound persons often poses challenges to practicing religion, as they are unable to do so in the same manner as before. Aims: To date, no local research on the impact of religion on older housebound persons has been carried out. This study aimed to explore how older housebound persons practice religion within the confines of their homes. This study also aimed to gain an understanding of whether older housebound persons turn to religious coping when faced with stressful life circumstances and explored whether religious coping impacts positively or negatively the lives of older housebound persons living in the community. Method: A qualitative research approach was used to gain insight into the impact of religion on older housebound persons living in the Maltese community. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was applied to provide detailed examinations of the lived experiences of this particular cohort of persons. Purposeful sampling through which participants who were knowledgeable about this area of the study were identified, and was utilised for this study. A pilot study was carried out with one participant, and since no adjustments were needed to the Interview Guide, the pilot interview was included in the main study. In total, four semi-structured face-to-face interviews were held at the residential homes of the older person participants. Results: After data analysis, 4 superordinate themes emerged, namely (a) personal religious practices, (b) emotional and interpersonal dimensions, (c) social and community engagement, and (d) technological influence. Respective subordinate themes emerged. It was found that all older person participants engaged in their own personal and individual religious practices, and relied on religion as a vital coping mechanism. Since all participants valued the ability to actively participate in their religion prior to their confinement, all older person participants yearned for the religious support they once enjoyed. This study also uncovered that older person participants often endure feelings of loneliness and isolation, whilst noting limitations from both family and clergy in assisting their religious practice. Additionally, all participants utilised traditional means of technology to engage in religious activities, such as listening to mass on television. Conclusion: There were findings which were similar to other limited studies abroad, especially with regards to personal religious practices, turning to God for support, particularly during difficult times, religion as a positive coping mechanism, religion as helping you form part of a community, the isolation experienced by the older person participants, as well as the use of technology to practice religion from the confines of their homes. Recommendations were made for future research to focus on other religions, to carry out larger-scale studies, as well as to focus on the gender differences attributed to the impact of religion on older housebound persons. Suggestions were also put forward to clergy members, transportation services, and local councils with the aim of facilitating and enhancing the lives of older housebound persons, whilst fostering their integration into society and reducing feelings of isolation. Description: M. Ger.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128950 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z