Transition of New Residents to Long-Term Care: Basing Practice on Residents' Perspective

EXCERPT The transition to long-term care is a critical period for new residents. This interpretive study examines the perspectives and experiences of a convenience sample of 10 newly admitted residents. Participants were interviewed within 1 week of admission and then periodically during the next 3 months. Thirty-two verbatim interviews were analyzed using interpretive phenomenology. Themes that emerged were becoming homeless, learning the ropes and getting settled, and creating a place. Understanding residents’ experience of transition leads to innovative practice changes in anticipation of individuals’ needs. Recommendations for the delivery of consumer-directed care are offered.