Ramona Schenell1, Anneli Ozanne2, Susann Strang3, Ingela Henoch4. 1. University of Gothenburg, the Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Box 457, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; The City of Gothenburg, Health Care Unit, Centrum City District Committee, Skånegatan 9A, 41140 Gothenburg, Sweden. Electronic address: ramona.schenell@centrum.goteborg.se. 2. University of Gothenburg, the Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Box 457, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 41346 Gothenburg, Sweden. Electronic address: anneli.ozanne@gu.se. 3. University of Gothenburg, the Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Box 457, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden. Electronic address: susann.strang@gu.se. 4. University of Gothenburg, the Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Box 457, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; Angered Hospital, Box 63, 424 22 Angered, Sweden. Electronic address: ingela.henoch@gu.se.
Abstract
AIM: The aim of the study was to develop a model that facilitates self-determination in residential care. BACKGROUND: The right to decide on one's own life is self-evident to most adult persons. Nevertheless, dependency on others and the routine-based care that sometimes is provided in residential care, limit the residents' possibilities of self-determination. METHODS: The study had a participatory research design using appreciative inquiry in focus group discussions with staff, residents, and care managers. The research process and the model were audited by two expert groups: a scientific reference group and a dementia-specialist reference group. A theoretical framework of relational autonomy and person-centred care was also used. RESULTS: By combining practical and theoretical knowledge, the model "To make and execute decisions throughout life" was developed. The core message of "In my way, at my pace, with the help of you" was reinforced by the categories "See me as a competent person", "Show me professional consideration", "Meet me in a trustful relationship", "Give me opportunity to a meaningful and safe day", "Support me in being independent", "Let me have power over my own life", and "Help me to plan my end-of-life care". CONCLUSION: The model "To make and execute decisions throughout life" provides a base for a person-centred approach to care. By reflecting on the core message and the different categories in the model, staff can be inspired to see their own contribution to the residents' self-determination and find ways to facilitate it despite the many obstacles.
AIM: The aim of the study was to develop a model that facilitates self-determination in residential care. BACKGROUND: The right to decide on one's own life is self-evident to most adult persons. Nevertheless, dependency on others and the routine-based care that sometimes is provided in residential care, limit the residents' possibilities of self-determination. METHODS: The study had a participatory research design using appreciative inquiry in focus group discussions with staff, residents, and care managers. The research process and the model were audited by two expert groups: a scientific reference group and a dementia-specialist reference group. A theoretical framework of relational autonomy and person-centred care was also used. RESULTS: By combining practical and theoretical knowledge, the model "To make and execute decisions throughout life" was developed. The core message of "In my way, at my pace, with the help of you" was reinforced by the categories "See me as a competent person", "Show me professional consideration", "Meet me in a trustful relationship", "Give me opportunity to a meaningful and safe day", "Support me in being independent", "Let me have power over my own life", and "Help me to plan my end-of-life care". CONCLUSION: The model "To make and execute decisions throughout life" provides a base for a person-centred approach to care. By reflecting on the core message and the different categories in the model, staff can be inspired to see their own contribution to the residents' self-determination and find ways to facilitate it despite the many obstacles.