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Numerous researches have been conducted on concerns of elderly people. However, no recent studies have addressed residents´ experiences of their lives in elderly care homes (ECH/BRIDDHASHRAM) in Kathmandu, as longevity and the concept of living in ECHs are both relatively new phenomena in Nepal.Thus, this study aims to investigate residents´ experiences of living in ECHs from the residents´ perspectives. A qualitative research method with a phenomenological and hermeneutic approach was chosen for the study. Qualitative research interviews with a semi-structured interviewing guide were used to obtain rich empirical data. Six key participants from two ECHs in Kathmandu were selected for the study. Kvale´s (1996) three levels of interpretation, namely, self- understanding, critical commonsense understanding, and theoretical interpretation, were used to analyze the data. One major theme of the " experience of thriving in ECHs" as well as five sub-themes: establishing and fostering social relationships, engagement in meaningful daily activities, living a happy and better life, feeling valued and respected, and being positive and optimistic about living in the ECH emerged from the study.

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Bhandari, Mina
Master degree in nursing from Norway, Diploma in nursing and bachelor in nursing and bachelor in sociology from Nepal.Research interest: Pain management in demented patients. Current Occupation: Nursing.Work experience: 10 years working experience in hospital as a Nurse, senior nurse, nursing in-charge in Nepal.

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