W. van der Vaart

Personal Landmarks as Recall Aids in Survey Interviews

Personal landmarks are a central element of calendar survey methods. These data collection methods use a graphical time frame in which specific landmark events can be described next to the respondents’ life history. The theoretical ideas in this article suggest that landmarks are most effective as a recall aid if they are important, domain-related, and personal events. The data originate from a calendar method that was embedded in a telephone survey in the Netherlands. The outcomes showed that respondents used a great variety of landmark events, that the number and types of landmarks are related to sociodemographic factors, and that the landmark distribution shows recency and heaping patterns. Weak positive effects of landmarks on recall accuracy were also found. The results suggest that a standardization of the landmark procedure might add to the effectiveness of its aided recall function.

The Practice of Dealing with Existential Questions in Long-Term Elderly Care

ABSTRACT Purpose: Existential questions concerning life and death or meaning in life are very salient for many older people receiving long-term care. However, little is known about how long-term care organizations deal with existential issues. This study describes the practice in two long-term care organizations that took part in a Dutch pilot programme on existential questions and formulates recommendations for building a professional quality framework. Method: Starting from theoretical notions on ultimate concerns, life events and meaning in life, organization policy and care practices were explored. Existing documents, in-depth interviews and participatory observations were used as data sources. Results: The outcomes indicate that the long-term care organizations had little active policy on dealing with existential questions; also, personnel had few specific tools except listening closely. Central requirements for dealing with existential questions appeared to involve organizational framework conditions like the availability of spiritual counsellors, having facilities in the building, and clear roles for various actors. Moreover, social-communicative competence building for care personnel was found to be an important demand as well as an organization-wide attitude that puts residents at centre stage. Conclusions: A professional quality framework requires a “tiered system” that differentiates organizational roles in dealing with existential questions.