Dignity in care survey in North Wales

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report on a survey conducted within North Wales regarding the perceptions of older people on dignity in care issues in the services received.

Design/methodology/approach

The North Wales Dignity in Care Forum did a survey, driven by the question: What one change today could make a difference to you tomorrow? National Health Service and local authority organisations participated in the survey. In total, 499 responses were received.

Findings

Some key themes were identified, particularly relating to keeping independence, individual respect and personal care. National Health Service and local authority responses had some differences.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include an absence of demographic data, an open sampling frame, so a response rate was difficult to measure and an inability to validate or further explore issues raised. This survey shows the value of a rapid and simple method of collecting information from older people accessing services.

Originality/value

The findings of the North Wales survey may help in taking forward new models of working for older people, especially for the most vulnerable.

Citation

Morgan, G. (2012), "Dignity in care survey in North Wales", Working with Older People, Vol. 16 No. 4, pp. 175-179. https://doi.org/10.1108/13663661211286701