The establishment of possibilities to increase life quality of patients of nursing homes: the resources of ergo-therapy

Abstract

In connection with the growing number of people with disabilities in the Russian Federation, there is a need to improve rehabilitation care and bring it into line with international models. The article discusses possibilities of ergo-therapy in improving quality of life of people with disabilities living in nursing homes. The results of qualitative study of medical and social work in nursing homes of elderly and disabled people are presented. The purpose of the study was to identify needs in professional ergo-therapy work in stationary type institutions. The article presents the results of original study carried out in 2023 using method of interviewing medical and social workers (n = 13) in two regions (Saratov, Penza). The study permitted to identify the most acute problem areas requiring ergo-therapy to improve the quality of life of patients in nursing homes for disabled and elderly persons. The study resulted in conclusions that to improve the quality of life both of patients in residential institutions and the level of satisfaction of citizens with social policy it is necessary to organize and implement ergo-therapy service in stationary institutions. The current situation requires presence of ergo-therapists in social institutions and health care, as their role and importance in supporting patients are increasing.