Defining pastoral care for older people in residential care
Lesley Wilkes
Family and Community Health Research Group (FaCH), Clinical Nursing Research Unit, Nepean Hospital; University of Western Sydney and Sydney West Area Health Service, Sydney NSW
Jane Cioffi
Family and Community Health Research Group (FaCH), University of Western Sydney, Sydney NSW
Andrew Fleming
Quality Systems, Southern Cross Care, Merrylands NSW
Jenny LeMiere
Our Lady of Consolation Home, Rooty Hill NSW
PP: 213 - 221
Abstract
The concept and definition of pastoral care in aged care remains ambiguous. This paper reports on the defining characteristics and meaning of pastoral care from the perspective of older recipients, their family members and pastoral care workers. Using a qualitative descriptive approach semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 pastoral care workers and 11 older people. Transcribed data were analysed using NVivo software and coded for emerging themes.
The defining characteristics of pastoral care that emerged from analysis of transcribed interviews were: a trusting relationship, spiritual support, emotional support and practical support. Findings also portray the role of the pastoral care worker as spiritual guide, confidante, and emotional and practical supporter acting within a trusting relationship. Future studies should confirm these results by exploring the perceptions of experts in the field of pastoral care.
Keywords
nursing; pastoral care; aged care; well-being; spirituality
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