Comparison of family satisfaction in Australian ethno-specific and mainstream aged care facilities.

Susannah J Runci, Barbara J Eppingstall, Eva S van der Ploeg, Daniel W O'Connor

The aim in this study was to identify specific aspects of care that increased satisfaction of family members of Greek and Italian residents with dementia in mainstream or ethno-specific aged care facilities in Australia. Relatives of 83 aged care residents with Greek or Italian backgrounds who were also cognitively impaired were interviewed. They rated their satisfaction with the facility and suggested improvements regarding the care provided. Family members with relatives in ethno-specific care were more satisfied, in terms of the facility's ability to meet the resident's language and cultural needs, social/leisure activities, and the food provided. The presence of a bilingual staff member and greater perceived reduction in family caregiver stress upon admission were associated with higher satisfaction. Results implicate the role of activities programs, catering, resident interaction, supporting caregivers upon admission, and bilingual staff members to increase family satisfaction, with the potential to improve the care provided to residents in mainstream care.