Automarginalization of the Elderly Females Living in Care Homes as an Outcome of Transition from Symbolic Once to Now: Secondary Qualitative Data Analysis (SQDA)

Abstract

A qualitative secondary data analysis outlined the key causes and problems of everyday life of 12 women who marginalize themselves in the care home, from various activities and social contacts. The results of the research indicated two main groups of causes: self-reeducation about experienced own losses and silent rebellion. The article is a report of secondary qualitative data analysis of 12 transcripts, semi-structured interviews with 12 older women aged 65-90, residents of 3 care homes in Poland. The purpose of the secondary analysis was to examine and understand the symbolic framework, dimensions and reasons for the selfwithdrawal of women. Analyzes indicated the automarginalization of 12 women in a symbolic continuum determining the time from admission to a care home and residence in it, called once and now. Females clearly indicate that there has been a transit from symbolic once to now. At that time, usually self-marginalization was present. Automarginalization took place on various plans, which determines e.g. dimensions as a physical withdrawal from; families, activities in the care home, ties and friendships, social status and roles, and space gradually limited to their own room. The analysis of 12 transcripts of interviews indicated two groups of causes. The first was related to self-reeducation about various losses that females experienced at the time, marked symbolically as once and now. The second reason indicates the rebellion of females against institutional conditions and organizational culture rules and customs. Interestingly, the rebellion was not indicated as an open objection but as a silent revolt. General conclusion and suggestion after the SQDA showed needs of regular training for the entire staff in the proper communication with female residents, who progressively lose their cognitive and other functions, fitness and feel helpless and embarrassed about it.