Valuing and sustaining older peoples' day care services

Abstract

Background: Unprecedented ageing and growth of the global population of older people is predicted. Between independent and residential care, day care is an essential part of a population-based strategy to support ageing well in place. Aims: To describe experiences of older people attending day care services. Method: Using the qualitative method, two focus groups were completed in 2018 in a region of Ireland with 12 participants. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed; grounded theory guided the subsequent analysis. Findings: Older people valued their participation in day care, describing the ‘home from home’ experience positively. Community nurses from the local public health nursing service played a key role in fostering and sustaining participation. Conclusions: National commitment to population-based age friendly environments is required to facilitate the wellbeing of a growing older demographic.