Carer Perspectives About the Acceptability and Usability of the TRANSITION Tool to Support Preparation for Older Adult Care Transitions: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction

Transitional care of older adults can be highly stressful for informal carers (carers) particularly when they are not involved in preparation and planning with health practitioners. This study aimed to ascertain carer perspectives about the potential acceptability and usability of a tool entitled the TRANSITION tool to support preparation and planning for the transition of an older adult from hospital to home.

Design

Exploratory qualitative.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were undertaken between March 2020 and October 2021. A focus group was conducted in July 2022 to seek additional information and support data saturation. A total of 23 participants took part. Data were thematically analysed.

Findings

Participants explained their perspectives about the tool in four themes: (1) the TRANSITION tool has value, but health practitioners ask the questions; (2) the TRANSITION tool would be useful and acceptable, but not for all carers; (3) interacting with health practitioners is a barrier to using the tool and to communication; and (4) recognising us as part of the care team.

Conclusions

While the tool was found to have potential value and utility, it would only be expected to support carers when they are valued and respected by health practitioners. Leadership is required in healthcare organisations to support genuine care for older adults and their carers, and to enable health practitioners to have time for transitional care communication.

Implications for Practice

The findings from the study suggest that the TRANSITION tool could support carers by prompting them about important areas of care to include in communication with health practitioners during discharge preparation.