Thriving in nursing homes in Norway: contributing aspects described by residents.
OBJECTIVE
Knowledge about residents' perception of what contributes to well-being and thriving in nursing homes is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate mentally lucid residents' perspective on what contributes to thriving in a nursing home.


METHODS
A qualitative study with a descriptive-exploratory design.


METHODS
Two nursing homes in Norway.


METHODS
26 mentally lucid nursing home residents.


METHODS
Data collection comprised participant observation and open-ended interviews.


RESULTS
Two core aspects contributing to thriving were identified: The residents' attitude towards living in a nursing home and the quality of care and caregivers. The residents' attitude was the innermost core aspect. Five additional aspects contributing to thriving were identified: Positive peer relationships, participation in meaningful activities, opportunities to go outside the ward or nursing home, positive relationships with family, and qualities in the physical environment.


CONCLUSIONS
Several factors contribute to an experience of thriving. The findings challenge the 'traditional' passive role of residents by documenting their active contributions to their level of thriving in a nursing home.
Bergland
Adel
A
Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Norway. adel.bergland@ldh.no
Kirkevold
Marit
M
D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006272:Health Facility Environment / Q000458:organization & administration; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006803:Human Development; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings / Q000592:standards; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009664:Norway; D009735:Nursing Homes / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010379:Peer Group; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011787:Quality of Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires