COVID-19 pandemic: end-of-life experience in Australian residential aged care facilities

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted those in residential aged care facilities (RACF). This research was undertaken to explore and better understand the effects of the pandemic on the experience of next-of-kin and carers who encountered the death of a loved one who resided within a RACF during the pandemic. Aims To explore end-of-life experiences for residents who die in RACF and their next-of-kin/carers during the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify areas of concern and areas for improvement. Methods Prospective single-centre mixed methods research was undertaken involving telephone interview with next-of-kin or carers of residents who died within 30 days of being referred to Austin Health Residential InReach Service during the 'second wave' of COVID-19 in Melbourne, Australia, in 2020. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Qualitative description and aspects of grounded theory were used for analysing qualitative data. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts used open and axial coding to identify initial themes and then to group these under major themes. Results Forty-one telephone interviews were analysed. Major themes identified included: COVID-19 pandemic, communication and technology, death and dying experience, bereavement and grief, and social supports and external systems. Conclusions Findings identify the many COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges faced by participants and their dying loved one in RACF. Access to palliative care and bereavement support is crucial for dying residents and for grieving that has been made more difficult by the pandemic.

Automated summary

This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on elderly residents and their next-of-kin/carers in residential aged care facilities. The findings identify the challenges faced by both the residents and their loved ones, highlighting the importance of access to palliative care and bereavement support, which have been made more difficult during the pandemic.