Older adults’ perspectives on their residential care homes

A case study

Bibliographic Data

ID22074771
AuthorsMarta Gil‐lacruz (0000-0001-8261-058X, Universidad de Zaragoza), Eduardo Alberto Leché-Martín (Ayuntamiento de Zaragoza), Marcus A Henning (0000-0002-1135-3464, University of Auckland), Ana Isabel Gil-Lacruz (Universidad de Zaragoza)
Year2026
Volume14
Pages1698646-1698646
Publication date2026-02-18
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFrontiers in Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2296-2565 • E-ISSN: 2296-2565
PublisherFrontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3389/fpubh.2026.1698646
PMID41788530
OpenAlexW7130388923
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited33

Introduction: Increasing life expectancy highlights the critical need for high-quality older adults care services. This study examined the satisfaction of residents aged 65 and older in a rural care home in Aragón, Spain, focusing on living spaces, personal relationships, and available services. The insights gathered aim to inform future improvements in service provision and policy. Methods: A case study approach was employed at a private care home in Sabiñánigo, Spain. Forty residents with functional autonomy were included; individuals with severe cognitive or mobility impairments were excluded. Data were collected via direct interviews using a validated, culturally adapted standardized questionnaire. The instrument assessed satisfaction with services (medical, dining, laundry), facilities (shared areas, rooms), participation, and interpersonal relationships. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and linear regression analysis were used to identify key determinants of overall satisfaction. Results: The sample predominantly consisted of women over 80 years old, mostly widowed or single, with preserved self-care capabilities. Most residents shared bedrooms and reported positive perceptions of this arrangement. While dining and healthcare services received high satisfaction ratings, storage space and cafeteria vending machine restrictions were negatively perceived. Furthermore, a significant proportion of residents reported a lack of participation in management suggestions. Inferential analysis revealed that food quality, functional status, and educational level significantly influenced overall satisfaction. Specifically, more educated and autonomous residents tended to rate the care home less favorably. Discussion: Residents generally reported high satisfaction with personal care and their residential lifestyle, particularly regarding dining and healthcare services. However, areas such as facility maintenance, storage, and opportunities for participation in management require improvement. The findings highlight the critical role of functional status and educational background in shaping satisfaction, suggesting that perceived quality of life is closely linked to personal autonomy and social engagement within the care home environment

Autonomy · Descriptive statistics · Health care · Interpersonal communication · Life expectancy · Life satisfaction · Long-term care · Personal care · Frailty in Older Adults · Geriatric Care and Nursing Homes · Migration, Aging, and Tourism Studies

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