Family, Peer, and Staff Social Support in Nursing Home Patients: Contributions to Psychological Well-Being

This study examined whether nursing home patients identified social support as coming from institutional peers and staff as well as family members. Associations among social support from those three sources, psychological well-being, and motivation to participate in treatment were explored in 32 patients. A majority described peer and staff support networks that were as large as or larger than their family support network. Subjective perceptions of support, but not size of network, were associated with well-being. Perceived support from peers was associated with less depression, greater positive affect, and greater motivation. Perceived support from staff and family was less consistently associated with well-being and motivation. Results suggest that peer and staff support contribute to the well-being of older adults and may complement family support during inpatient admissions or residential stays. Clinical and programmatic interventions that facilitate peer and staff support might enhance patient well-being and stimulate participation in self-care.