Fictive Carers Perceptions of the Impact of Outcome-Focused Homecare with Older People Living Alone

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to discuss whether the use of outcome-focused homecare improves the subjective wellbeing of the fictive carers of older people living alone. It also discusses fictive carers’ perception of whether this intervention has improved the well-being of their relative. Design/methodology/approach: This study followed the fictive carers of 30 service users who were assessed as having high care needs and living alone over a six-week period. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken at three intervals during the six weeks. The carers were asked to assess their subjective well-being at the start, middle and end of the study. Findings: The key findings were that all 30 fictive carers expressed an improvement in their subjective well-being and that of their older family member, who appeared more settled as a result of this model of care. Originality/value: This study provides an insight into the impact of outcome-focused homecare with older people as perceived by their fictive carers. Previously, research has established that outcome-focused care increased the subjective well-being of the older person from their own perspective. This study also demonstrated that this model of outcome-focussed care also improved the subjective well-being of the fictive carers themselves. These findings will help healthcare practitioners consider the use of this model of homecare as a potential alternative to providing separate support packages for the fictive carers.