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Improving socially constructed cross‐cultural communication in aged care homes: A critical perspective
Author(s) -
Xiao Lily Dongxia,
Willis Eileen,
Harrington Ann,
Gillham David,
De Bellis Anita,
Morey Wendy,
Jeffers Lesley
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
nursing inquiry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.66
H-Index - 49
eISSN - 1440-1800
pISSN - 1320-7881
DOI - 10.1111/nin.12208
Subject(s) - cultural humility , cultural diversity , context (archaeology) , general partnership , public relations , workforce , intercultural communication , sociology , nursing , diversity (politics) , focus group , psychological intervention , psychology , cultural competence , medicine , pedagogy , political science , paleontology , anthropology , law , biology
Cultural diversity between residents and staff is significant in aged care homes in many developed nations in the context of international migration. This diversity can be a challenge to achieving effective cross‐cultural communication. The aim of this study was to critically examine how staff and residents initiated effective cross‐cultural communication and social cohesion that enabled positive changes to occur. A critical hermeneutic analysis underpinned by Giddens’ Structuration Theory was applied to the study. Data were collected by interviews with residents or their family and by focus groups with staff in four aged care homes in Australia. Findings reveal that residents and staff are capable of restructuring communication via a partnership approach. They can also work in collaboration to develop communication resources. When staff demonstrate cultural humility, they empower residents from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to engage in effective communication. Findings also suggest that workforce interventions are required to improve residents’ experiences in cross‐cultural care. This study challenges aged care homes to establish policies, criteria and procedures in cross‐cultural communication. There is also the challenge to provide ongoing education and training for staff to improve their cross‐cultural communication capabilities.