Enhancing Satisfaction in Later Life:

Abstract

Abstract Enhancement of later life satisfaction of long-term care residents is the purpose of this study. Seventy-eight men, residents of two Veterans Affairs nursing home units, completed a survey measuring personal characteristics, relationships with family and friends, and levels of life satisfaction. Findings show that the "the realization of expectations" is what mattered most for the later life satisfaction of these veterans. Continuity of respect from the past, and feeling needed were also significant. These findings point to the importance of identifying the institutionalized resident's past roles and current values in order to help them meet their expectations for later life. Implications for social work practice with institutionalized elders are presented.