At Home in a Nursing Home: An Ethnography of Movement and Care in Australia

This book explores how people who are aged and frail can live out the final phase of their lives with dignity, providing a new route into the bodily realities of aging and offering an alternative approach to aged care provision.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

This book delves into contemporary perspectives on providing aged care, raising the crucial question of how individuals who are elderly and fragile can navigate the final stage of their lives with dignity. By exploring this topic, the author aims to uncover innovative approaches to residential care that foster a sense of belonging and compassion. Through an ethnographic study, the book offers a fresh perspective on the bodily realities of aging, providing valuable insights into delivering the right care for elderly residents. This groundbreaking contribution to the search for alternative models of aged care is a testament to the author's dedication to improving the quality of life for older individuals.

Introduction:
The provision of aged care is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration and attention. As the global population continues to age, the demand for quality care for older individuals is increasing, making it essential to explore innovative solutions to meet their needs. This book aims to delve into contemporary ideas about how aged care is provided and to raise the question of how individuals who are elderly and fragile can live out the final phase of their lives with dignity.
Contemporary Perspectives on Providing Aged Care:
The author of this book examines what it means to be "at home in residential care in a novel and compassionate way." By conducting an ethnographic study, the author seeks to understand the experiences of elderly residents and identify the factors that contribute to their well-being and quality of life. The book provides a valuable insight into the physical, emotional, and social aspects of aging and highlights the importance of providing care that is tailored to individual needs.
Ethnographic Study:
The author's ethnographic study involves observing and interviewing elderly residents in residential care facilities. Through this research, the author gains a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise in providing care for older individuals. The book explores the various aspects of residential care, including the physical environment, staffing, and programming, and examines how these factors can impact the quality of life of elderly residents.
Body-Bodily Realities of Aging:
One of the key themes of the book is the bodily realities of aging. The author highlights the physical changes that occur in the body as individuals age, such as mobility issues, chronic health conditions, and sensory impairments. The book also explores the emotional and psychological impact of aging, including feelings of isolation, loss, and grief. The author argues that providing care that acknowledges and addresses these bodily realities is essential for promoting the well-being of older individuals.
Alternative Approaches to Aged Care Provision:
The author of this book advocates for alternative approaches to aged care provision that prioritize the individual's needs and preferences. The book suggests that care should be tailored to the individual's physical, emotional, and social needs and that care facilities should be designed to promote a sense of community and belonging. The author also emphasizes the importance of incorporating technology and innovation into aged care to improve the quality of care and enhance the well-being of older individuals.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of aged care. By exploring contemporary perspectives on providing care, the author highlights the importance of promoting dignity and well-being for older individuals. Through an ethnographic study, the book offers a fresh perspective on the bodily realities of aging and provides valuable insights into delivering the right care for elderly residents. The book advocates for alternative approaches to aged care provision that prioritize the individual's needs and preferences and emphasizes the importance of incorporating technology and innovation to improve the quality of care. By raising awareness and promoting dialogue about aged care, this book contributes to the development of a more inclusive and compassionate society for older individuals.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800736641