E-Thesis 72 views
Redefining professional boundaries: Relationship-based practice in the care for older people with dementia / FAYE GRINTER
Swansea University Author: FAYE GRINTER
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.67884
Abstract
In recent years, relationship-based practice has emerged as a pivotal framework in social work, particularly in child and family practice. However, its application in residential care for older people with dementia remains underexplored. This gap is significant amidst a globally ageing population an...
| Published: |
Swansea, Wales, UK
2024
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Verity, Fiona ; Beech, Christian |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa67884 |
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| Abstract: |
In recent years, relationship-based practice has emerged as a pivotal framework in social work, particularly in child and family practice. However, its application in residential care for older people with dementia remains underexplored. This gap is significant amidst a globally ageing population and increasing demand for social care, especially in a sector facing workforce challenges. Social care workers in residential settings establish crucial caring relationships with people with dementia. However, these often contend with managerialist influences. This thesis aims to understand effective relationship-based practices in residential care for people with dementia, focusing on the experiences of residents and staff. It explores necessary cultural and practical changes to enhance support for these practices. Using a case study approach in two residential social care settings in South Wales, the study identifies principles of effective relationship-based practice through documentation analysis, direct observations, and interviews with staff and residents. A social constructionist ontological approach, recognising that social realities are constructed through interactions, is utilised to understand how residents and staff co-create the social environment and influence the effectiveness of relationship-based practices. The results were analysed using qualitative content analysis, from an ethics of care perspective, providing deeper insights into what constitutes effective care practices for people living with dementia. Analysis suggests that laughter, touch, and closeness are vital elements of effective relationships. The findings emphasise that a 'one size fits all' approach is ineffective, as some residents prefer distance. Time was found to be crucial in fostering positive relationships, while current professional boundaries and lack of time are barriers. This thesis advocates for cultural and contextual shifts in residential social care to enhance the practical and emotional dimensions of social care relationships. It suggests that practice and professional boundaries should better align with a relationship-based approach to care in residential settings. |
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| Keywords: |
Relationship based practice, social care, residential care, older people, dementia, case study |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
ESRC and Health and Care Research Wales |