Healthcare and social care professionals' experiences of respite care: a critical incident study

• Published in: International journal of qualitative studies on health and well-being Vol. 19; no. 1; p. 2352888
• Main Authors: Gusdal, Annelie K, Söderman, Mirkka, Pettersson, Tina, Kaup, Jaana, Gustafsson, Lena-Karin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Taylor & Francis 01.12.2024; Taylor & Francis Group
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Aging Well: Health & Wellness in Life’s Later Years; Attitude of Health Personnel; Caregivers - psychology; Communication; Continuity of Patient Care; critical incident technique; Female; group interviews; Health Personnel - psychology; Humans; informal care; Male; Middle Aged; older adults; professional caregivers; Qualitative Research; Quality of Health Care; Respite Care; Social Support; Sweden; Sweden; informal care; Critical incident technique; older adults; respite care; qualitative research; group interviews; professional caregivers
• ISSN: 1748-2631; 1748-2623; 1748-2631
• DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2352888

Aging in place is favoured among older persons and supported by research in Sweden, although it poses challenges for overburdened informal caregivers. While respite care can offer support, its accessibility is hindered by organizational challenges and informal caregivers' delays in using it. The experiences of informal caregivers are well-studied, but the professionals' experiences of respite care quality and critical incident management are underexplored. To explore professionals' experiences of critical incidents in respite care, consequences for the persons being cared for, and strategies to manage critical incidents. A qualitative, critical incident technique was used, and three group interviews with a total of 16 professionals were conducted. Barriers to quality respite care included communication gaps during care transitions, environmental shortcomings in respite care facilities, lack of support for informal caregivers, and inadequacies in respite care decisions. Strategies to manage critical incidents included individualized care, continuity and communication in care transitions, a conducive environment, support for informal caregivers, and care professionals' positive approach. The study emphasizes the need for focused efforts on communication, continuity, and a supportive environment. Addressing identified challenges and applying suggested strategies will be key to maximizing the potential of respite care as a vital support for care recipients and their informal caregivers.