Influential factors of long-term care in a Japanese rural community examined through interviews of family caregivers.

摘要

Recent increases in the number of those with health care needs who live at home in Japan highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy community environment for long-term care. This study characterized continuing long-term home-based care for patients with health care needs in a rural community through an examination of influential factors, as perceived by family caregivers of patients with care needs. Semistructured interviews revealed self-reliance as the most important factor. Promoting the quality of a family caregiver's life was also found to be important. Family caregiver support is required considering the character of a rural community and residents' ideologies.