Long-Term Marriage and Long-Term-Care - We Thought Wed Be Together Till We Died

Within the Australian context, few studies have explored how aged care facilities provide for and treat families. Using qualitative methods, this study sought to link an understanding of the experience of placing a long term partner, with an exploration of how residential facilities treat such family members. Results show that facilities had a variable capacity to recognise and respond to the needs of older spouses. Although family input is valued, families need to be provided for, supported and included more directly as part of long term care