Doing Care with Integrity and Emotional Sensibility—Reciprocal Encounters in Psychiatric Community Care of Older People with Mental Health Problems

Lis Bodil Karlsson, Elisabeth Rydwik

Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden; Research and Development Unit, Jakobsberg’s Hospital, Stockholm County Council, J?rf?lla, Sweden.
Research and Development Unit, Jakobsberg’s Hospital, Stockholm County Council, J?rf?lla, Sweden; Deptartement of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division for Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge, Sweden.

DOI: 10.4236/sm.2013.32025                

Abstract

The article focuses on the experiences of community care workers in the encounter with older persons suffering from mental health problems, such as mental illness and disability. The purpose is to describe and discuss opportunities for and challenges to reciprocal encounters with these older people in community care, based on statements from professionals interviewed. Structured conversations with five focus groups were organised, consisting of 26 participants, including nurses’ assistants, assistant nurses, nurses, social workers and occupational therapists. The participants in the focus groups highlight the essence of being involved and create space for a reflective attitude. Clinical implications will be presented as well.

Keywords

Focus Group; Social Care; Mental Illness; Psychiatric Disability

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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