Family-based intervention in residential long-term care

Family care for older adults is often conceptualized as a ‘career,’ and one of the key transitions that may occur during the course of caregiving is the placement of an older relative in a residential long-term care facility (most commonly a nursing home). This literature review critiques and synthesizes existing intervention strategies designed to promote family involvement following institutionalization. In particular, two types of family-based interventions are identified that have received scientific evaluations in the literature: group-based and family-staff partnership approaches. Specific studies on each of these types (N = 11) are summarized and critiqued. Key research and practice recommendations are also offered to guide the future evaluation of programs to assist families adapt to the long-term care experience.