Thesis
The implementation of relationship-centred model for creating a positive culture in residential aged care : implications for care recipient well-being
Southern Cross University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Southern Cross University
2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25918/thesis.205
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Abstract
Residential aged care providers in Australia face increasing demands from clients, families, and government, with expectations of more individualised approaches to residents’ care needs and a greater focus on wellbeing. As identified in the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, aged care organisations need to implement innovative practice models to promote resident wellbeing in residential aged care. One such model is the Eden Alternative. A review of the literature demonstrated there is a lack of empirical evidence on the effectiveness of the Eden Alternative as a model for culture change; relationship-centred care is poorly understood in aged care settings; and longitudinal studies are needed to measure sustained change. The aims of this study were to investigate the Eden Alternative philosophy through the lens of a relationship-centred model, informed by Appreciative Inquiry and to add to the knowledge of relationship-centred care in residential aged care settings. An Appreciative Inquiry was conducted at the study site with residents (n = 13), families (n = 10), and staff (n = 17). A series of themes was generated across the first three stages of the Appreciative Inquiry, which included semi-structured interviews (Appreciating Phase), focus groups (Envisioning Phase), and an organisational summit (Constructing Phase). The experience of transitioning into residential care and the importance of their relationships was made clear by the study participants. Highlighting the need for staff to recognise residents’ individuality and for clear communication strategies. The summit identified the themes of ageism, culture and leadership, while the concept of trust emerged across each stage of the Appreciative Inquiry. It was clear from this study that the term wellbeing is poorly understood in the resident cohort. The findings led to the development of the CIRCLeT practice model to guide the implementation of Eden as a relationship-centred model to support resident wellbeing. The model is supported by seven principles and a practical toolkit that can be utilised by service providers to introduce culture change. This study furthers the knowledge of the Eden Alternative and advances understanding of relationship-centred care to support resident wellbeing. It provides evidence of the needs of individuals living in residential aged care, and the practices required to develop a culture that meets these needs.
Details
- Title
- The implementation of relationship-centred model for creating a positive culture in residential aged care : implications for care recipient well-being
- Creators
- Frances Anne Larkey
- Contributors
- Mark Hughes (Supervisor) - Southern Cross UniversitySusan Nancarrow (Supervisor) - Southern Cross University
- Awarding Institution
- Southern Cross University; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Theses
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Southern Cross University
- Publisher
- Southern Cross University
- Number of pages
- xv, 417
- Identifiers
- 991013023634302368
- Copyright
- © FA Larkey 2021
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health
- Resource Type
- Thesis