Psychosocial reactions to relocation to a nursing home among Chinese older adults

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to describe the psychosocial reactions to relocation to a nursing home from the perspective of older adults. MethodThis study applied a qualitative interview design. Narratives from 23 Chinese nursing home residents in a life review program in Fuzhou, China were recorded, transcribed into sentences, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. ResultsThe following psychosocial reactions to relocation to a nursing home emerged: fear, struggle, compromise, acceptance, and contribution. The fear resulted from negative labels attached to nursing homes, fear of disconnection to society, fear of difficulties in establishing new relationships, and fear of being abandoned by their families. The behaviors of ‘struggle’ were complaining about family members, thinking of returning home, praying for change, and taking action to leave. The keys to compromise were a choice between maintaining harmony in family relations and the companionship of relatives, a choice between professional care and family care, and a choice between the cost and effectiveness of family care and nursing home care. The process of acceptance included accepting life yet with worries, affirming the benefits of living in a nursing home, and embracing nursing home life. Contribution was mainly reflected in two aspects, a sense of ownership and bring into full play their self-worth. DiscussionsThis study generates new insights into knowledge on the psychosocial reactions to relocation to a nursing home. It provides both family members and nursing home staff with direction on how to ensure a smoother relocation process.