Reconceptualising Dignity‐Centred Care for Hospitalised Older Adults: A Discursive Theoretical Analysis Using the Levine's Conservation Model

ABSTRACT

Aim

To propose a conceptual model of dignity-centred care for hospitalised older adults using Levine's Conservation Model as a theoretical framework.

Design

A discursive approach.

Methods

Data were obtained from an extensive search of five databases and grey literature without date restrictions for information on patient dignity, dignified care for hospitalised older adults and the Levine Conservation Model.

Results

Dignity is a multifaceted concept encompassing an inherent self-worth and self-worth acquired through personal accomplishments and associations. Hospitalised older adults are at risk of dignity erosion due to complex health conditions, poor healthcare professional- patient communication, inadequate health information, loss of autonomy, inadequate privacy, and infrastructural and systemic barriers. Key components of dignified care include respect, autonomy, privacy, effective symptom management, effective communication and active patient involvement in decision-making. The proposed conceptual model integrates Levine's principles of conservation into a dignity-centred care framework. This model identifies threats to dignity in hospitalised older adults and outlines practical interventions to mitigate these threats in order to maintain or restore dignity.

Conclusion

The proposed conceptual model of dignity in care for hospitalised older adults, underpinned by the Levine Conservation Model, offers a practical framework to guide healthcare professionals in providing care that upholds the dignity and well-being of older adults. The model can serve as a foundation for developing institutional policies and training programmes that reflect the multidimensional nature of dignity in care for older adults.

Impact

The study addressed both the conceptual ambiguity and skills gap surrounding dignity-centred care for older adults by offering a practical guide for integrating dignity-centred principles into routine clinical practice. The findings hold substantial relevance for healthcare practice, providing a structured, theory-informed model to advance dignity-centred care and protect the dignity of hospitalised older adults.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable.