THE AGED: HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Growing old is inevitable. Yet, being old and away from family is a scenario not understood by most people but is becoming a common feature even in a family-oriented country, the Philippines. This qualitative-phenomenological... [ view full abstract ]

Growing old is inevitable. Yet, being old and away from family is a scenario not understood by most people but is becoming a common feature even in a family-oriented country, the Philippines. This qualitative-phenomenological study was conducted among six female geriatric residents of Lady’s of Charity at Roxas City, Capiz with the aim of understanding their life in the home for the aged. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted among the elderly on several occasions.
The aged participants are all female, Roman Catholics, in their late adulthood and mostly “old maids.” Themes identified were Longing for Home, Adaptation and Acceptance of Home. The elderly claimed initial feelings of fear, loneliness and longing for a family and own home upon arrival at the institution. Three experienced depression but eventually realized that the place is not as bad as they expected. Adaptation to routines made life easier. Some are still independent in their ADLs, some are assisted by caregivers. They have interpersonal conflicts but considered it normal and settled it promptly. They are all still physically active and devoted to God. They often pray and seek God when they are emotionally down. Four of them do admit being sad for they are never visited by their family. Presently though they accept the institution as their home and consider the residents as their family. Their caretakers are said to be moody sometimes but in general are kind to the residents. They consider the institution as their home away from home.
Considering these findings, the DSWD with the OACS should regularly monitor homes for the aged to ensure safe and quality care for the residents. LGU should ensure financial support. Families should be oriented that home for the aged is a good option but must not neglect to visit their aged loved one.