Care of Older Residents: One Man among Many Women

Background: Men and women are differently bodily, as well as have distinctive ways of thinking; consequently, their health care needs are not always the same. For some older adults who enter longterm care facilities, the impact of gender upon their care may not be recognized by staff. Research questions: Two questions guided this project: (1) what is known about gender specific differences that may influence resident care in long-term care facilities? And (2) what recommendations might be made specific to residents' care in long-term care facilities based upon identified gender differences? Method: A literature review, an account of what has been published on the topic of gender by accredited scholars and researchers, was conducted. Attention was paid to the context of located research findings and their applicability to the population of interest. Findings: Gender appears to be identified as an ‘add on' aspect of care, rather than an integral component. This may be due to limited understanding by staff of gender specific needs within long term care facilities. Implications for practice: Staff, of all levels, must reflect upon their understanding of gender and how it may influence the care that they provide.