Experiences of older people in Long-Term Care Institutions in light of the theory of Liquid Modernity

Abstract

Objective: To get to know the experiences of older people in the process of institutionalization. Method: This is a qualitative study based on interviews with 30 older people residing in three Long-Term Care Facilities for Older People (LTCF) in a municipality in an inland city of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The analysis was conducted using thematic analysis techniques, in light of the theory of Liquid Modernity, from September to December 2024. Results: Based on the data analysis, four themes were formulated: Institutionalization due to inability to provide care and as a process imposed by the family; Losses resulting from institutionalization; Suffering and discomfort in institutional living; The institution as a space of care, security, and reconstruction of belonging. Conclusion: The experiences of institutionalized older people expressed the complexity of care in contemporary times, marked by ambivalent experiences between protection and suffering. The findings indicated a need to improve care practices, invest in staff training, and strengthen public policies that promote humane care, autonomy, and the continued presence of older adults in their social context, whenever possible.