Multilevel Factors Related to Psychosocial Care Outcomes in Washington State Skilled Nursing Facilities

Abstract

As the primary providers of psychosocial services in skilled nursing facilities, social services professionals report barriers interfering with their ability to meet residents' needs. This study utilizes a 3-category quality assessment framework and a cross-sectional survey design to assess factors impacting the provision of effective psychosocial services in Washington State facilities. Hierarchical linear regression results indicate that the 3-factor model explains 26.4% of the variance in psychosocial outcomes; 4 variables exert the most influence: ownership turnover, practitioner experience, practitioner role identity, and the importance of individualizing care. Findings have implications for developing necessary supports for quality psychosocial care delivery.

Keywords:

• skilled nursing facilities
• nursing homes
• social workers
• social services
• psychosocial care
• survey deficiencies
• resident-centered outcomes

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by a grant from the John A. Hartford Foundation Geriatric Social Work Doctoral Fellows Program.

The author thanks Dr. Mary Gillmore for her assistance in revising an earlier version of this article. She also acknowledges the support of Drs. Nancy Hooyman, Jean Kruzich, and Taryn Lindhorst, who offered extensive recommendations regarding the research design and methods employed in this study.