A Participant Observation of the Delivery of Home Care Services to Frail Socially Isolated Older People Receiving Two Different Models of Care Delivery

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to discuss the micro process of care delivery between the home care workers and the older person, with the aim of examining what aspects of the care delivery process improve or impinge on the on the care delivery. In addition to this the paper will consider whether any discernible differences were established between the two models of care delivery. Design/methodology/approach: This study followed eight homecare workers delivering time and task homecare and an alternative outcome-focused care model. Participant observations were undertaking with the workers who were followed delivering care to 16 older people with 8 older people were selected from each intervention group. In addition to the participant observations 4 follow up interviews were conducted with the homecare workers and 16 follow up interviews were conducted with the participants. Findings: The key findings were that the model and manner in which homecare is delivered have a profound impact upon the homecare workers and the older person’s ability to form a mutually satisfactory caring relationship. Originality/value: This paper helps to provide insight into how the micro delivery of care process impacts upon the quality of homecare an older person receives.