Relocation Appraisal, Functional Independence, Morale, and Health of Nursing Home Residents

Relocation to a nursing home can be stressful and may result in mental and physical illness. Appraisal, or the meaning assigned to relocation, can influence relocation outcome. This study examined the relationships between appraisal of relocation and 30 nursing home residents' psychological and physical health, morale, functional independence, and demographic and situational factors, including age, gender, income, education, prior residence, participation in the decision to relocate, and preparation for the move. Positive, benign, and challenge appraisals were related to higher morale and functional independence. Threat appraisal was related to poorer psychological health and lower morale. Harm-loss appraisal was associated with lower morale and lower functional independence. Preparation for the move was related to higher positive appraisal, higher morale, functional independence, and lower harm-loss scores. Implications include the need to assess people's appraisal of relocation so as to plan strategies that prevent relocation stress.