Old Age Homes

Old Age Homes by Roger Clough provides a powerful analysis of the realities of residential work and challenges the assumption that living with family or on one's own is always a more satisfactory experience for old people. Clough's study, based on detailed observation and lengthy interviews, demonstrates his genuine compassion and warmth for old people and highlights the double-bind in which residents and staff are caught. He tests two central hypotheses: that there is a linkage between the attitudes to aging held by staff and the degree of control over their own lives exercised by residents, and that this degree of control is strongly correlated with resident satisfaction. The book is of outstanding value for managers, practitioners, trainers, and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1981, in Old Age Homes, Roger Clough presents a vivid description of the lives and work of residents and staff in an old people's home. His powerful analysis of the realities of residential work would make a significant contribution to improved practice, to social work training, and to social policy formation.

Many people, including some social work professionals, still felt that the very existence of residential homes illustrated a failure of society, and that living with their own family or on their own was invariably a more satisfactory experience for old people. Roger Clough questions this assumption. He argues that homes are needed, and if they are to be good places in which to live and die, there must be a clearer understanding of the interactions that take place within them.

The descriptive parts of the study, based on detailed observation and lengthy interviews, strongly reflect the author's genuine compassion and warmth for old people. His most illuminating perceptions are presented from the perspective of the old people themselves, many of whom were conscious of the double-bind in which residents and staff are caught: there is a prevailing belief that it is best to keep active in old age, yet many of the elderly had little they thought worth doing, while the staff saw their role as doing whatever they could for the residents.

Roger Clough uses his material to test two central hypotheses: first, that there is a linkage between the attitudes to aging held by staff and the degree of control over their own lives exercised by residents; and secondly, that this degree of control is strongly correlated with resident satisfaction. Through an acute analysis of these key variables, he demonstrates the circumstances in which living in a home can be, for some, a positive and fulfilling experience.

Clough's study highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics between staff and residents in residential homes. He argues that the attitudes and behaviors of staff can have a significant impact on the well-being and satisfaction of residents. By examining the relationships between staff and residents, Clough identifies factors that contribute to positive outcomes and those that hinder them.

One of the key findings of the study is that a sense of control over one's life is a crucial factor in determining resident satisfaction. Clough argues that residents who feel that they have some control over their daily activities and decisions are more likely to be happy and content. This sense of control can be achieved through various means, such as providing residents with choices and opportunities to participate in decision-making, respecting their autonomy and independence, and providing them with meaningful activities and experiences.

Another important finding of the study is that the attitudes of staff towards the aging process can have a significant impact on the attitudes and behaviors of residents. Clough argues that staff who have a positive and respectful attitude towards aging are more likely to create a supportive and nurturing environment for residents. This can lead to increased resident satisfaction and well-being.

Clough's study also highlights the challenges that residential homes face in providing high-quality care and support to older adults. He identifies factors such as staffing levels, training and education, and funding that can impact the quality of care provided. Clough suggests that these challenges can be addressed through policies and practices that prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of residents.

In conclusion, Roger Clough's study on Old Age Homes provides a valuable insight into the lives and work of residents and staff in residential homes. His powerful analysis of the realities of residential work would make a significant contribution to improved practice, to social work training, and to social policy formation. By examining the interactions between staff and residents, Clough identifies factors that contribute to positive outcomes and those that hinder them. His study highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics between staff and residents in residential homes and the need for policies and practices that prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of older adults.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032043180