Development of a Toolkit to support sustainable culture change in residential aged care

Australas J Ageing. 2021 Mar;40(1):77-83. doi: 10.1111/ajag.12890. Epub 2020 Dec 17.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a Toolkit to support implementation of the Towards Organisational Culture Change (TOrCCh) intervention, with minimal external facilitation, in aged care facilities, to implement long-lasting organisational change.

Methods: Eight residential aged care facilities across two Australian states participated. A Toolkit was drafted iteratively, engaging staff from participating sites and a reference group. Participating facilities undertook two change projects utilising the Toolkit. Qualitative data were collected from site project sponsors, work teams and other care staff, and analysed thematically.

Results: The intervention was perceived to provide a generic approach that could be applied to solve agreed challenges in the workplace generating useful outcomes including staff development, increased communication, teamwork and leadership. The role of a project sponsor, and organisational support, was perceived as important for sustainability.

Conclusion: Aged care facility staff teams report they can work together effectively for sustainable improvements when provided with a Toolkit.

Keywords: communication; homes for the aged; leadership; organisational culture; quality improvement.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Australia
  • Delivery of Health Care*
  • Homes for the Aged*
  • Humans
  • Organizational Culture
  • Organizational Innovation