The consistency of self-reported preferences for everyday living: Implications for person-centered care delivery.

Nursing home (NH) residents are a frail population and it is unknown whether frailty or age impacts their ability to report preferences consistently. This study tested consistency of NH residents’ (n = 37) and university students’ (n = 50) everyday preference importance over 1 week. Results showed no differences in the consistency between NH residents’ and college students’ preference ratings; age and frailty were not related to preference instability. Among NH residents, personal care preferences were more stable and leisure activity preferences were less stable. The study confirms that reports of preferences by NH residents are consistent and reliable and can be used in care planning.