Improving Quality of Life in Nursing Homes: The Structured Resident Interview Approach

Table 1

Description of sample.

Care plan domain		Examples
Functional competence	7	(i) Ask resident if she would like her bathroom straightened up; (ii) When in resident’s room at same time as resident, ask her if she would like anything moved within her reach
Meaningful activities	6	(i) Ask resident about current reading materials and if she would like new books or other reading materials; (ii) When there is an activity involving cards (blackjack, etc.) invite resident to join
Comfort		(i) Ask resident if she would like her pillows or bed height adjusted
	5	(ii) When assisting resident with getting dressed, ask resident if she would like to have any extra layers on or nearby
		(iii) Each night ask resident if the temperature of her room is acceptable
Food enjoyment	4	Ask resident if her food is warm enough and offer to microwave it if cold
Relationships	2	During one-on-one visits with resident ask if she would like materials for her in-room activities
Religious preferences	1	Twice a week, ask resident if she needs any of her religious materials moved within her reach
Individuality	1	(i) Once a week, visit with resident to talk about prior life experiences such as military service; (ii) When giving care to resident take extra five minutes to engage resident in a conversation about talking points in his room
Security	1	Three days a week, stop in to see resident in her room and engage her in a short conversation