Correlates of perceived caring behaviour of formal caregivers in long-term care facilities: A cross-sectional survey

Background Researchers have identified several factors that correlate with the caring behaviours of formal caregivers in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). However, a limited range of socio-demographic factors has been discussed, and no studies have discussed the combined effects of the institutional characteristics of the LTCF and the personal characteristics (i.e. bio-psycho-socio-spiritual attributes) of the formal caregiver on the caring behaviour. Aim The aim of this study was to examine caring behaviours of formal caregivers for older residents of LTCFs and to explore factors that explain and predict the caring behaviours of them. Methods A valid sample of 224 formal caregivers (nurses and nurse aids) employed at 56 LTCFs (21 nursing homes and 35 assisted living facilities) was analysed. Hierarchical regression analysis with two-tailed significance test was used to investigate whether the caring behaviours of the caregivers were independently associated with the characteristics of the caregivers or the institutions. Findings Caring behaviours of the formal caregivers had significant positive associations with their job satisfaction (beta = 0.152, p < 0.05) and with their perceived satisfaction of LTCF residents (beta = 0.214, p < 0.001).The organisational-level analysis revealed that caring behaviours had positive associations with accreditation level (beta = 0.163, p < 0.01) and with nurse-aid staffing level (beta = 0.126, p < 0.05). Additionally, the caring behaviour had positive associations with their attitude towards older adults (beta = 0.193, p < 0.01) and with their self-transcendence (beta = 0.184, p < 0.01). These two factors explained 42.2% of the variance in the caring behaviours of caregivers. Conclusion and implications Caring behaviours were related to both personal characteristics (attributes, mindset) and organisational characteristics. By clarifying factors in the caring behaviours of caregivers, this study provides information that LTCFs can use to develop strategies for managing their caregivers and that policymakers can use to establish and implement healthcare policies for older populations.