Understanding the transition to long-term care: Perceptions of family care partners of older adult Veterans

Introduction: Veterans and their family care partners represent a unique demographic with specific needs that may differ from those of the general population. The transition to a long-term-care home (LTCH) has the potential to profoundly affect older adult Veterans and their care partners, yet research on how this move affects them is limited. This study explored the experiences and needs of older adult Veterans and their family care partners transitioning to a LTCH from the perspective of the care partner. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used for this project. One-time semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine family care partners of older adult Veterans living in LTCHs across Canada. Coding and thematic analysis were used to iteratively categorize and synthesize the data. Results: The analysis revealed three overarching themes with the following sub-themes: 1) information gaps and knowledge use, 2) feeling valued, recognized, and supported, and 3) the health and well-being of the Veteran and family care partner. These sub-themes were seen throughout all stages of the move to a LTCH, including the pre-, during-, and post-transition stages, and served to either impede or assist in a positive transition. Discussion: The results of this study will lead to an increased awareness of the specific challenges and facilitators faced by care partners and Veterans transitioning to a LTCH, ultimately leading to recommended changes in how they are supported throughout this move.