Opportunities for a meaningful life for working-aged adults with neurological conditions living in residential aged care facilities: A review of qualitative research

Abstract

Introduction The aim of this review was to identify and synthesise findings from all published qualitative research investigating the experiences of working-aged adults with neurological conditions living in residential aged care facilities. Methods A qualitative metasynthesis approach was used. Two authors independently screened all citations and critically appraised all included studies. Data extraction and analysis was undertaken using conceptual description and interpretive explanation. Sensitivity analysis was used to ensure credibility of review findings. Findings Seven studies were identified, with varying relevance to this review. Five themes were identified that described the experiences of working-aged adults regarding contributors and barriers to social participation and personal growth. These related to: (1) safety; (2) dignity; (3) dependency; (4) flexibility; and (5) the ‘size’ of one’s physical and social world. Conclusions All people should have the option to live in private residences rather than institutional care should they choose to do so. However, if residential aged care is the only option available, more efforts are needed to ensure that these facilities are sufficiently resourced, have appropriately trained staff, and are encouraged to be creative and flexible in their service delivery to meet the individual needs of their residents, particularly working-aged adults with neurological conditions.