This master's thesis delves into the complex and nuanced experiences of elderly individuals as they make the significant transition into the residential care home in Domžale. The theoretical section of the thesis explores the multifaceted concept of aging, including various dimensions such as chronological, biological, and eventful old age. It also addresses the crucial issue of long-term care and the specific needs of older people, with a focus on institutional care, which is the predominant form of care for the elderly in Slovenia. Additionally, the thesis examines the topic of entering a residential home, investigating the reasons, emotions, and concerns of elderly individuals when they first enter such an institution. It also explores the essential role that social workers play in supporting the elderly residents in the residential home.
The empirical section of the thesis presents a qualitative study, which builds upon the theoretical foundations using a partially structured interview. The study involved ten participants, elderly residents from the Domžale residential home, who generously agreed to participate. The study aimed to understand how seniors envision their lives during their later years, their motivations, emotions, and experiences during the transition into institutional care, the process of entering the residential home, the support they received, their expectations, and their perceptions of the social worker's role in the institution. The results of the study provide valuable insights into the experiences of elderly individuals in the residential home and offer recommendations for improving the quality of care for older people.
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