The experience of entering residential aged care: The views of residents, family members and staff-an Appreciative Inquiry.

OBJECTIVES: To understand resident, family and staff perspectives of older people's transition to residential aged care and initiatives that support this transition.

METHODS: A qualitative Appreciative Inquiry was undertaken with residents, family members and staff in residential aged care. It included semistructured interviews (n = 40), three focus groups (n = 17) and an organisational summit (n = 72). Each stage sought to build on the previous one, deepening understanding of the issues experienced and identifying positive strategies for change. Data were analysed thematically using framework analysis.

RESULTS: The transition experience was characterised by grief and guilt felt by family members and the challenges they faced in participating in a decision to admit a relative to residential aged care. Residents found the transition challenging but stressed the need to adjust to the situation. Family members struggled with trusting others to provide appropriate care and both residents and relatives reported challenges in communicating with staff. Initiatives were recommended by the organisational summit to assist in the transition to residential aged care. These included developing a service navigator role, co-designing new systems and resources with residents and relatives, and ensuring more consistent staffing.

CONCLUSIONS: Improved communication strategies and resources are needed to support the resident's identity, build trust in the organisation and support transition to residential aged care. Staff should continue to value the contribution family members play in the life of the resident and the culture of the aged care community.