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Generation of a function affect model for residents with advanced dementia
Author(s) -
Chang Esther,
Edenborough Michel,
Nicholls Daniel,
Johnson Amanda,
Brownhill Suzanne,
Simard Joyce
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
international journal of nursing practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.62
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 1440-172X
pISSN - 1322-7114
DOI - 10.1111/ijn.12718
Subject(s) - dementia , affect (linguistics) , cognitive reframing , nursing , thematic analysis , quality of life (healthcare) , transformational leadership , psychology , health care , medicine , focus group , gerontology , disease , qualitative research , social psychology , sociology , social science , communication , pathology , anthropology , economics , economic growth
Aims and objectives This article presents the generation of a model of care encompassing “function” and “affect” based on findings from a 2011 research project aimed at improving care delivery for people with advanced dementia. Objectives were to provide comprehensive and sustainable care, honouring and respecting the person. Background Dementia is a debilitating, progressive, and terminal disease with a trajectory ranging from approximately 3 to 16 years, yet attention to end‐of‐life care, promoting comfort, alleviating suffering, and maximizing quality of life is frequently overlooked for people living in the advanced stages of the disease. Methods The research project from which the model was drawn used a three‐phase mixed methods approach at three residential aged care facilities (nursing homes) providing high care in New South Wales, Australia. Thematic analysis was elicited from focus group discussions with staff, family members, and carers of residents. Findings Themes describe distinct dimensions of a model of care: “function” (dedication, designation, and deliberation) and “affect” (the personal outcomes revealed in relaxation, stimulation, and transformation). Conclusion Reframing nursing practice from task and disease orientation to person centred and relationship focused is essential in meeting the complete needs of people with advanced dementia. This transformational model of care may be useful in adapting to other end‐of‐life care settings.