Developing criteria for elderly nursing homes: the case of Lebanon
International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance
ISSN: 0952-6862
Article publication date: 22 March 2011
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to establish a set of measurable criteria for elderly nursing homes (ENHs) in Lebanon. Donabedian's model known by structure/process/outcome was used as the driving conceptual framework for the study.
Design/methodology/approach
The study reports on a panel discussion where administrators, caregivers and specialists, separately established and exchanged key information on best practice approach. The work was carried out in the summer of 2008, using the consensus panel method. A group of expert opinions (Dalkey) made up of elderly home administrators and caregivers, policy makers, and academics discussed specific key issues related to elderly health and quality of life.
Findings
A total of 40 criteria were retained along seven main dimensions: types of elderly homes; funding; health services; boarding services; activities; structures; and elderly rights.
Research limitations/implications
A major limitation in this study is that elderly were not part of the consensus making process. Thus, including elderly in the process would have substantiated and added validity to the established criteria.
Practical implications
The criteria developed in this study can be turned into key performance standards for elderly homes in Lebanon, other Mediterranean and Arab countries. These criteria would greatly benefit elderly homes if validated and used as guidelines for quality care.
Originality/value
The study is original in the sense that it seeks to establish measures for criteria, a blueprint, and benchmarks for ENH standards.
Keywords
Citation
Nasser, R. and Doumit, J. (2011), "Developing criteria for elderly nursing homes: the case of Lebanon", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 24 No. 3, pp. 211-222. https://doi.org/10.1108/09526861111116651
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited