Satisfaction and Coping of Younger Residents in Care Homes – a Qualitative Study

Context: In Germany, about 7% of the care home residents are under 65 years of age. Little is known about the views of this age group about living in a nursing home.

Objectives: The aim of the study is to investigate how younger nursing home residents in Germany experience their life situation.

Methods: The sample consisted of eight residents, aged between 33 and 62, some living in facilities for older people, and some in facilities for younger adults. According to the principles of hermeneutics, qualitative interviews were conducted and analysed using qualitative text analysis.

Findings: Satisfaction with living in a care home was related to the possibility of having social relationships, adequate nursing care, a good staff-resident relationship, and privacy. Dissatisfaction was high when self- and co-determination were restricted. The younger residents used active, passive and re-appraising coping strategies.

Limitations: Only eight participants were interviewed.

Implications: The needs of younger nursing home residents should be addressed in nursing study programmes and further education. A specific assessment is needed. The care homes should then empower to co-determination.