How Medical Objects, Meal Prep Assistance, and Relational Culture Impact the Meaning of 'Home' for Home Care Clients
2024

How Home Care Clients View Home Through Meals and Medical Objects

Sample size: 22 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Spring Lauren, Mason Stephanie, Kuryk Kaitlyn, Keefe Janice, O’Neil Kelly

Primary Institution: Mount Saint Vincent University

Hypothesis

How do medical objects, meal prep assistance, and relational culture impact the meaning of 'home' for home care clients?

Conclusion

The study found that meal preparation and medical devices significantly shape the meaning of home for older adult home care clients.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study involved interviews with both clients and caregivers to understand their perspectives.
  • Findings suggest that the meanings of home are shaped by both food practices and medical objects.

Takeaway

This study shows that what makes a place feel like home for older people getting care is influenced by the food they eat and the medical tools they use.

Methodology

Qualitative analysis of data from three interviews over 18 months with 12 older adult home care clients and 10 caregivers.

Limitations

The study is based on a small sample size and specific geographic locations.

Participant Demographics

Older adult home care clients and their paid caregivers in Manitoba and Nova Scotia.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2949

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