Year

1996

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Department of Nursing

Abstract

This purpose of this study is to examine the effect of a forced mass interinstitutional relocation on the quality of life for two groups of nursing home residents. A conceptual model for this study. The Relocation Adaptation Model (RA), was derived from both empirical and conceptual literature on social gerontology. The study population was randomly selected from the more cognitively able nursing home residents. A combination of methodologies was used to collect the data necessary to make comparisons over a 17 week time period. Three recognised instruments were used: the General Health Questionnairre-20, The Affectometer 2 and the Katz Index of Activities Of Daily Living. Other instruments were developed by the researcher to collect relevant data. An audit of participant's records was included. Guided interviews were also carried out. The study found that the quality of life of residents in a nursing home is effected following a forced interinstitutional relocation and that the level of medication useage by participants may have been a significant factor in the response to the relocation. Few mass relocations of nursing home residents have taken place in Australia. These will increase as existing nursing home buildings age and deteriorate. This study is unique. The researcher believes it is the only Australian study of this nature to have been carried out.

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Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this thesis are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the University of Wollongong.