| This study explored how nursing homes in Delaware support family involvement in the nursing home and family members' perceptions of those supports. Nursing homes' support for family members was examined by identifying what structured activities are provided in nursing homes, what policies and programs exist that are intended to facilitate family involvement, and what characteristics may influence family involvement in nursing homes in Delaware. Data were collected from Directors of Nursing and Activity Directors in Delaware nursing homes (n = 58), as well as family members of nursing home residents (n = 3). The findings suggest that there are significant associations between the nursing home characteristics of ownership status with size and profit status; and location and profit-status. The only significant finding associated with family members' involvement in Delaware nursing homes was found in the relationship of family member assistance to other nursing home residents. Other supports and barriers to family member involvement include: the care planning processes; methods for communicating with family members; use of family councils; access to administrative personnel; and other institutional issues (e.g., staff turnover). Family member reports on their participation in programs of the nursing homes suggest several reasons for their involvement, changes in their patterns of involvement over time, and possible barriers and supports within the nursing home that influence family member involvement. Implications for quality of care and further research are discussed. |
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