Factors Influencing Staff Support for Sensory Device Use for People in Long-Term Care Settings

Abstract

Residents in long-term care settings do not receive adequate support for hearing and vision devices. This study aimed to identify factors influencing support for residents' daily use of hearing and vision devices. Semi-structured interviews with 23 staff were analyzed deductively to categorize data within the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation model of Behavior (COM-B), and then inductively to identify themes and subthemes within each domain guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework. Capability factors included a lack of skills in managing and maintaining sensory devices, interpersonal communication skills, and forgetting about device use. Opportunity factors included device management not being included on care task lists and inaccessible sensory devices. Staff reported a strong sense of duty and positive feelings about providing device support, reflecting high motivation.

Keywords: aged care; dementia; hearing aids; hearing/vision impairment; long-term care.