Understanding the significance of listening to older people's life stories in whole person care—An interview study of nurses in gerontology

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the significance of performing a life story interview for gerontological nursing students. Method: The study had a qualitative exploratory design, focusing on hermeneutical understanding using thematic analysis. Seven nurses in older people nursing were interviewed. Findings: Two main themes emerged from the analysis: “Engaging fellowship” and “Understanding the importance of life stories.” The participants experienced increased engagement and fellowship with their patients after the life story interview; the change in their perspective was characterized by renewed interest, connection, and recognition of the individual person. The participants also gained a deeper understanding of the significance of listening to an older person’s life story narrative, and this was expressed through them gaining an understanding of people’s actions, achieving an altered mindset, gaining a greater generational understanding, and integrating a life story focus in their everyday professional life. Conclusion: Knowledge of human life and stories makes older people’s situations easier to understand; this insight affects how we as nurses think about others. Seeing each patient as an individual and unique person and being aware of this in daily care is essential for nursing.