Open AccessThe health and service needs of older veterans: a qualitative analysis
Author(s) -
Feldman Susan,
Dickins Marissa L.,
Browning Colette J.,
DeSoysa Tiasha S.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
health expectations
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.314
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1369-7625
pISSN - 1369-6513
DOI - 10.1111/hex.12190
Subject(s) - locus of control , qualitative research , gerontology , thematic analysis , independence (probability theory) , retirement community , psychology , population , health care , independent living , government (linguistics) , medicine , social psychology , sociology , political science , environmental health , social science , statistics , linguistics , mathematics , philosophy , law
Background With substantial numbers of older people within the A ustralian veteran population continuing to age well within the community, appropriate planning of community support and health services is important for this ageing population. Objective The purpose of this research study was to investigate the health and service usage of a group of older Australian war veterans who receive A ustralian G overnment support for their health‐care needs and conditions. Design This paper reports on qualitative data gathered from the longitudinal MELSHA study. Utilizing thematic analysis and the theoretical framework of locus of control, this article reports on 25 qualitative interviews of veterans and their widows about their DVA ‐related health and service usage. Results Participants within this study were determined to maintain a sense of control and independence in relation to their living circumstances and service usage. In doing so, they attempted to maintain their current community living circumstances and independence while minimizing their utilization of services and perceived ‘burden’ on family members and friends. Participants accepted that a decline in health status was inevitable, but engaged in a number of different strategies to maintain their current way of life for as long as possible. Discussion & Conclusion Participants, while valuing an internal locus of control, generally engaged in an integrative locus of control to maintain a sense of control and independence in their daily lives. In addition, participants were very grateful of the services provided by the DVA and acknowledged their role in maintaining their independence within the community.