Exploring Interrelations Between Person-Centered Care and Quality of Life Following a Transition Into Long-Term Residential Care: A Meta-Ethnography

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Globally, a culture change in long-term residential care (LTRC) moving toward person-centered care (PCC) has occurred in an attempt to improve resident quality of life (QoL). However, a clear understanding of how different aspects contributing to a PCC approach are interrelated with resident QoL is still lacking. This review explores interrelating aspects between PCC and QoL in LTRC using qualitative synthesis. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Ten relevant primary studies were identified from a search of interdisciplinary research databases providing qualitative information. Studies were critically reviewed for key themes and concepts by the research team. We used a meta-ethnography approach to inductively interpret findings across multiple studies and reinterpreted the information using a constructivist approach. RESULTS: We identified 5 second-order constructs sharing commonalities suggesting interrelations between PCC and QoL: (a) maintaining dignity, autonomy, and independence; (b) knowing the whole person; (c) creating a “homelike” environment; (d) establishing a caring culture; and (e) integrating families and nurturing internal and external relationships. Synthesis translation led to the following third-order constructs: (a) personalizing care within routines, (b) optimizing resident environments, and (c) giving residents a voice. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: There are many interrelating aspects of PCC and QoL following a permanent transition into LTRC, but successful implementation of PCC, which enhances QoL, presents challenges due to organizational routines and constraints. However, by prioritizing resident voices to include their needs and preferences in care, QoL can be supported following a transition into LTRC.