Nursing assistants caring for dementia residents in nursing homes: The family's perspective on the high quality of care

Abstract

Most research on nursing home care has focused on its problems and shortcomings, with few positive reports concerning resident care. The current study investigates a neglected aspect of nursing home research. family members' positive perceptions of the care nursing assistants provide to residents with dementia. Content analysis of cross-sectional data from 133 family member interviews from five nursing homes revealedfour positive themes.

• Family members' appreciation for how difficult it is to care for persons with dementia and understanding constraints imposed by understaffing, heavy workloads, and low wages;

• Care provided by nursing assistants that exceeds expectations;

• Positive expressions between nursing assistants and residents and residents' family members; and

• Identification of a kin-like relationship between residents and nursing assistants.

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