Abstract
M.A. (Social Work)
Relevant literature clearly indicates a steady increase in not only the
number of aged persons but also the demented population. Consequently it
has become imperative that the nursing staff responsible for the day - and
night care of demented patients in a residential setting, acquire appropriate
knowledge of dementation as such, and clarity on their roles in an endeavour
to decelerate the dementation process. They, furthermore, need to
be aware of the special needs of demented aged persons --needs which call
for particular professional skills.
In this study the emphasis is on the development and evaluation of a group
work programme for nurses in two homes for demented aged persons. The programme
is based upon knowledge on dementation, and its contents are directed
at a repertoire of skills which, when effectively practised, will
serve as a support system to nurses.
Researcher made use of an indirect measuring method: an experimental - and
control group were established at two homes where direct observation was
done in respect of the behaviour of the residents and the nature of nursing.
A questionnaire was completed by the experimental - and control
group, prior to and following on the provision of a group work programme.
The target universe consisted of fifteen nurses at two homes for demented
aged persons. Nine and six members of the nursing staff were respectively
connected to the experimental - and control groups. The experimental group
attended nine sessions which incorporated the mediating - goal model
designed by Papell and Rothman (in du Preez 1979:73)...