Psychological distress among workers caring for the elderly

Abstract

Abstract The GHQ‐30 was used to assess psychological disturbance among staff working in four long‐stay wards, four homes for the elderly mentally infirm, four elderly persons' homes and four private nursing homes. Rates of disturbance were consistent across all 16 units. Rates of CGHQ caseness were low, compared with published findings from a representative UK community sample. A strong relationship was demonstrated between staff psychological disturbance and aggression from residents over the last week. Disturbed staff were more likely to perceive a lack of support at work, and to report 'shouting back' at aggressive residents. No relationship was found between rates of disturbance and a range of demographic and work‐related factors. Implications for service provision and future research are discussed.