title: Lives deferred? Exploring social disconnection and perceived quality of life among young adults residing in a long-term care facility.
abstract: This qualitative study explores the perceptions of young adults concerning their experiences in a long-term care facility. Qualitative data were gathered via 15 intensive semistructured interviews with participants ages 18-45. Three dominant themes emerged: (a) social and family disengagement, (b) nonstimulating activities, (c) inadequate finances, and (d) the nature of resident/staff relations. Theoretical implications of empowerment theory, as well as implications for increasing social support and reducing barriers to service delivery for younger underserved residents, are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Behavioral Science and Social Work, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. marshallis@wssu.edu
authors.forename: Isiah
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Marshall
authors.forename: Tiffany D
authors.initials: TD
authors.lastname: Baffour
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011610:Psychosocial Deprivation; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D012918:Social Alienation / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support; D055815:Young Adult