Research shows that older adults generally prefer to age in familiar surroundings. Nevertheless, over 95,000 people in Austria receive residential care each year. Individuals affected by poverty face a higher risk of needing residential care, and socioeconomic inequalities may persist within these settings. In light of this, the research project explores how social inequality is perpetuated in care homes and investigates the role the Family Council might play in addressing these inequalities.

The project aims to document social inequalities in residential care from the perspectives of older adults, their family members, and professional caregivers. To do so, problem-centered interviews are conducted to triangulate the experiences and perceptions of all participants. Data analysis follows the Grounded Theory approach developed by Strauss & Corbin. The project seeks to assess the potential of the Family Council to accompany transitions into residential care and help reduce social inequalities. It also offers students a hands-on opportunity to engage with issues of inequality and its impacts in the care context.

The analysis aims to validate the hypothesis that socioeconomic disadvantages are not fully eliminated within care homes. The findings may contribute to the development of measures to reduce social inequalities in care and improve the quality of life for older adults.