Developing Policies and Practices with senior Citizens Through Practice Research

Background and purpose: This presentation is based on a research project initiated by a supra-municipal social services management body, solicited by a group of social workers in the area. The project aims to undertake a participatory study of evolving social needs and their development, to contribute to social policies tailored to emerging needs. In this presentation, we will focus on the first issue identified by the research, targeting the senior population. This has been prioritised not only due to the growing number of elderly individuals but also because of profound changes in the social conditions and lifestyles associated with old age. Moreover, in light of the relatively well-established organisation of services for the elderly, the local welfare agency sought to identify unmet needs and how these might evolve in the future, enabling a shift from reactive to preventive interventions. Methods: The study followed a practice-based research approach and was designed in cooperation with a board comprising practitioners, social actors involved with elderly citizens, policymakers, elderly individuals, and caregivers. The data were collected through 10 qualitative interviews with key informants and 6 focus groups with older adults in various settings, including residential services, capturing the perspectives of 39 individuals in total. The interviews and focus groups explored both current experiences of well-being and future projections in terms of expectations, hopes and fears. Transcript analysis, supported by N-vivo QSR, and related results were regularly discussed with the board. Findings. One of the most significant findings from the data analysis was the disconfirmation of the expectation that there would be a strong demand for additional services, particularly for home and residential services. This is certainly there, but the main concern, and fear for the future, is related to solitude and loneliness, particularly in connection to the progressive loss of autonomy. In the context of the fear of becoming, or being dependent, the quality of the relationships, respect, and dignity emerge as paramount. What older citizens and their families deem essential is that carers and practitioners have sufficient time to devote to building meaningful relationships and genuinely care for those they serve. On top of that, there is a strong call for attention for attention to initiatives that address and mitigate the growing sense of isolation of isolation. But again, it is not just provisions that are sought, but the relational quality of these provisions. Implications: These findings highlight the profound inadequacy of the current emphasis on efficiency and speed in the care of the elderly. Instead, there is a pressing need to prioritise relationship-building, dignity, and recognition, in contrast to the prevailing perception of elderly individuals being made to feel unimportant or burdensome to society.