The purpose of this study was to explore quality of life issues as perceived by residents, relatives and staff and to contribute to the overall understanding of quality of life domains among older people living in long-stay care in Ireland. A mixed method design incorporating both qualitative and quantitative was utilised.  As part of the qualitative data collection and analysis preceded the quantitative data collection and analysis, the study was categorised as an across method sequential exploratory design. Three methods were employed within this study; (1) focus groups (2) quantitative survey of long-stay facilities and (3) qualitative interviews with residents and staff.

This presentation will focus on the data gathered from interviews with residents (n = 101).  Four core themes emerged as important for older peoples’ quality of life: care environment and ethos of care; personal identity; connectedness to family and community and activities and therapies.  These factors were found to be the ‘constants’ which determined residents overall quality of life.  A number of categories make up each theme.  These will be elaborated on in the paper and illustrated using residents’ comments.It was concluded that much work needs to be done to enhance residents’ quality of life in long-term care facilities.  The study concludes that there is a need for a change in focus from quality of care to quality of life.  A shift of this dimension has implications for both practitioners and policymakers.  The rationale for this conclusion and recommendations for change will be expanded on in this paper.

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