Working With Older People: A Qualitative Study of X and Y Generation Nurses’ Perceptions

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the perceptions and working experiences of two age cohorts of nurses' about care of older people. Material and Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was used. The research sample consisted of 68 internal medicine and surgery nurses representing X and Y generations. Data were collected using a demographic form and a semi-structured interview form. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. Results: The general themes for generation X were: care time, emotional responses, and provide resources for older patients. The general themes for generation Y were: increasing workload and time problems, categorization of older people, and finally, the need for holistic care. Conclusions: All nurses experienced that caring for elderly is difficult. However, they emphasized the needs of older people. This may be an essential component in organizing older people care. It is recommended regulation of working conditions to reduce the difficulties experienced by nurses in care of older people.

Keywords

• generation
• nursing care
• aging
• perception
• kuşak
• hemşirelik bakımı
• yaşlanma
• algı