Subjectively perceived quality of life is a priority concern in planning, implementing and evaluating health policy and treatment decisions. The lack of a universally accepted definition of this multivariate concept is a barrier to sound research. This article analyzes the concept of subjectively perceived quality of life to determine its critical attributes, antecedents and consequences to establish a basis for an operational definition for use in research.
Quality of life (QOL) of older persons living in institutions is a critical consideration in international economic policies and health care decisions. Yet, there is little relevant research to support decisions about culturally acceptable and effective nursing care for this population. This qualitative study explored and compared perceptions of older residents and nurses in three long-stay institutions in south-west England. It addressed issues viewed as important to a good QOL for residents and ways in which nurses promote QOL. A convenience sample of 10 residents aged 65 and older (80% female) and nine nurses (n = five registered general nurses and four enrolled nurses) were interviewed using a semi-structured schedule. Interview data were analysed using an analytic induction method of content analysis. While theme frequency and examples differed, themes common to both residents and nurses were individuality, professionalism, connectedness, and physical functioning. Resident responses tended to be personal, succinct, and sometimes negative. Nurses' responses were more positive, detailed, and reflective of general professional responsibilities. Implications for nursing education, research, and practice are discussed. Improvement in QOL will be addressed differently based on social and cultural settings. However, there may be commonalities that are applicable across cultures.
Elderly persons relocating to a nursing home experience a life transition that they usually perceive as a crisis. Effective coping with this transition/crisis requires effective management of the event. Nurses caring for these persons are challenged to assess and intervene to assist them to achieve positive outcomes from this transition. Moos & Schaefer's (1986) Conceptual Model for Understanding Life Crises and Transitions depicts a process by which nurses may help elderly persons cope effectively with relocation to a nursing home. This paper describes the model and its application to the nursing care of elderly persons relocating to a nursing home, including a case study. The extent to which the model has been empirically tested with populations in long-term care settings is critically analysed.
Is it possible to have a positive impact on the quality of life (QOL) of nursing home residents? This pilot project tested a goal-focused intervention designed to improve QOL. In a sample of nursing home residents with cognitive impairments, investigators compared outcomes of residents who experienced the intervention as pairs with those who experienced it as singles. To various degrees, all 16 male residents (mean age = 66.6) who participated in the project attained individualized goals. Pre- to post-intervention, mean ratings for QOL measures increased for the total group, with the exception of perceived health, which decreased slightly. Pairs had greater frequency of increased ratings than singles. Further, nurses reported pairs initiated social and helping behaviors more frequently than singles.
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