"We Had a Beautiful Home . . . But I Think I'm Happier Here": A Good or Better Life in Residential Aged Care. (11th February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Minney, Melissa J.; Ranzijn, Rob
• Is Part Of: Gerontologist. Volume 56:Number 5(2016:Oct.)
• Page Start: 919
• Page End: 927
• Publication Date: 2015-02-11
• Subjects: Good life -- Eudaimonia -- Partners in positive aging -- Well-being -- Residential aged care; Older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnu169
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-9013

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of the Study: This qualitative study investigates residents' perspectives on whether a "good life" is possible for older people living in residential aged care (RAC) and offers insight into the services and support needed to sustain their good life. Design and Methods: Thirteen aged care residents (2 male, 11 female) ranging in age from 77 to 95 years, participated in semi-structured interviews in 2 RAC facilities in Adelaide, South Australia. Both facilities employed a model of aged care based on active aging and positive psychology principles called the partners in positive aging (PiPA) model. Results: Interpretative phenomenological analysis showed that residents' perception of a good life was centred on the service providers' ability to enhance their physical, social, and psychological well-being while allowing them to maintain their sense of identity. Counter-stereotypically, findings suggest that the aged care environment can provide older people who are physically frail but cognitively intact with a better life than when they were living in their own homes. Implications: Psychological good life theory needs to be adapted and modified when considering the needs of cognitively intact older adults in residential care.