Seeking residents' views regarding Australian residential aged care: A scoping review

Objective

This scoping review aimed to explore topics on which the views of residents of Australian residential aged care facilities (RACFs) have been sought.

Methods

Scoping review methodology as outlined by Arksey and O'Malley was used to identify, explore and report on the range of literature regarding views of RACF residents. Seven electronic databases were searched using broad search terms relevant to the RACF context. Descriptive numerical analysis was completed for publication year, journal name and target profession, research methods and participant types. Thematic analysis then focussed on the aims of the included studies.

Results

Four thousand two hundred and ninety studies were screened, and 104 publications met the inclusion criteria. A broad range of topics were explored by researchers, with the largest number of papers focused on residents' views of systems within RACFs (n = 24) and new programs and interventions (n = 21). Smaller topic areas included health conditions and health-care services (n = 13), socialisation (n = 13), physical activity (n = 3), self-care (n = 4), leisure (n = 4), general everyday life (n = 20) and aspects of the residential aged care environment (n = 15). There was limited exploration of meaningful activity (n = 13). The inclusion of residents with cognitive impairment was inconsistent, and the voices of other stakeholders were often privileged.

Conclusions

Voices of residents must be heard in order to prioritise the health and well-being of this population. More research which focuses on what is important to residents is needed and must include residents with cognitive impairment more effectively. Identification of optimal research methods with this population would make an important contribution in this area.