Perceptions of care and satisfaction in assisted living facilities.

This study had two objectives: (1) to determine current consumers' perceptions and satisfaction with assisted-living facilities and (2) to determine current consumers' evaluation and preferences for nursing assistants. Responses from residents and family members indicated positive, but not strong, satisfaction with care. Areas identified as often unsatisfactory were; the mealtime experience, the nursing assistants, and recreational activities. Preferred qualities of nursing assistants identified by both residents and family members were genuine concern, kindness, respect, and consistent attentiveness. Residents only identified a pleasant disposition as an essential quality of nursing assistants and only family members identified knowledge regarding aging, gentle assertiveness, and commitment to staying on the job as essential qualities of nursing assistants.