Seeking admission into residential care : social, psychological and ecological dimensions

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the social, psychological and ecologic /I difficulties that induce older persons living in the community to seek admission into residential A qualitative approach was used in exploring the area chosen. A semi - structured interview method was utilised, where set questions were used as a guide. This method encouraged spontaneous and effective answers. The interviews were tape - recorded and later uninscribed according to thematic relevance. Discussion of the resits indicates that older persons are a heterogeneous group and these are multiple issues that prompt an application of admission. However, a recurrent reason is that many of them have decided to take this decision as a pre-emptive move to possible deteriorate. Their major toucan is to avoid becoming a burden on their relatives. The study concluded that the degree and intensity of formal support seniors is not a major issue but rather, many older persons wanted the peace of mind offered by residential home.