Policy Brief: Justifying Preference-Congruent Care in Nursing Homes

Policy Implications

Given the strong evidence supporting the benefits of preference-congruent recreational care, nursing home policies should prioritize:

1. Assessment of Preferences: Regularly assessing and updating residents’ activity preferences to ensure care aligns with their evolving interests.
2. Staff Training: Educating nursing home staff on implementing preference-congruent care strategies.
3. Resource Allocation: Providing adequate budget and resources to fund trained recreational care staff and offer diverse recreational options tailored to residents’ needs.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing mechanisms to track participation, assess impact, and continuously improve recreational care offerings.

Issue Overview

Preference-congruent care is a person-centered approach that honors an individual’s preferences in care delivery. This approach tailors recreational activities to a resident’s interests and choices, promoting engagement and enhancing overall well-being.

Why is Preference-Congruent Recreational Care Important?

Research indicates possible benefits of preference-congruent recreational care in nursing homes.^1-3 The advantages may include:

• Better Functional Health: Greater attendance in preferred activities is linked to better functional health and reduced pain levels.
• Reduced Depressive Symptoms: Individuals who engage in preferred activities exhibit lower rates of depressive symptoms.
• Increased Participation: Residents are less likely to decline to attend activities that align with their personal interests, leading to greater social and emotional engagement.

Conclusion

Integrating preference-congruent recreational care in nursing homes is a crucial step toward improving residents’ well-being, reducing depressive symptoms, and enhancing functional health. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and administrators should collaborate to ensure that nursing home residents receive care that respects and aligns with their personal preferences, fostering a higher quality of life.

*This brief was created with the summative support of ChatGPT, March 6, 2025.

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