1985 Understanding the Perceptions of Caregivers of Older People in Residential Homes in Cairo

Introduction

Institutional care for older people is a relatively new social phenomenon in Egypt that is associated with societal stigma. Traditionally dependent older people are looked after by family members at home. There are currently 145 care homes in Egypt, mostly based in Cairo serving 2% of the older population. The aim of this study was to understand the perspectives of paid caregivers on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) associated with their professional roles. This knowledge is crucial to deliver a culturally sensitive training program for caregivers, and enhance their job satisfaction, ultimately leading to person-centred high-quality care.

Method

Two focus group meetings, 90 minutes each, were conducted with 39 caregivers in a private care home in Cairo. Each group was further divided into four working sub-groups using a SWOT approach to guide the discussion. Generic themes were identified, analysed, and agreed on by the group participants.

Results

Thirty-nine caregivers (31 % males), age range 18-50 years, were interviewed including undergraduate and qualified nurses and social workers. Five themes were identified: administration, team values, training, place and equipment, and residents and families. SWOT findings related to each theme are summarised below:

Theme

Strength

Weakness

Opportunities

Threats

Administration

Support and flexibility

Poor incentives

Access to healthcare services

Lack of rest facilities

Team values

Peer support

Mixed qualities in different leaders

Outdoor recreational activities

Lone working

Training

Mentoring programme

Unfulfilled training needs

Regular updates on CGA

No medical cover

Place & Equipment

Resident accommodation

Not always fit for purpose

Health and safety compliance

Cost of accommodation

Residents and families

Sharing knowledge

Discriminatory attitudes toward staff

Documentation of resident’s priorities

Unfounded complaints

Conclusion

Reflecting on the views of paid caregivers provided valuable insight that could enhance the quality of institutional care for older people in Cairo.