Abstract
Freda Mold, Julia Roberts, Joanne Fitzpatrick and Louise Barriball address the challenges encountered while undertaking a feasibility study to elicit the views of care home nurse managers on the needs of minority ethnic older residents. It includes advice for those who plan to conduct empirical work in this sector There is a developing body of research about minority ethnic elders in the UK (Blakemore 2000, Gerrish 2000) but few empirical studies have focused on those who live in care homes (Mold et al 2005). International studies have focused on access and equality issues (Howard 2004), environment and workforce issues (Berdes and Eckert 2001), resident and staff interaction (Jones and van Amelsvoort Jones 1986, Mercer et al 1993), and identity, independence and culture (Lee 1999). But while recent evidence indicates that UK government policies focus on the needs of all older people, little research has sought to understand the needs of specific population groups in UK care homes (Patel 1998, Social Service Inspectorater 1998, Audit Commission 2000, Department of Health (DH) 2001). Further research is needed, therefore, to better understand older people’s needs and thereby inform and enhance the services provided to individuals.