ACH Milpara

Partners in positive ageing – model of wellbeing

Purpose – the intentions of the Partners in Positive Ageing model of wellbeing project is for staff and residents to partner together to bring about a change in focus to a more active and driven model of wellbeing for residents. The goal is to improve individuals overall wellbeing through being physically and mentally active and engaging in every day activities with optimum independence, exercising judgement, decision making, taking action and demonstrating choice and control wherever possible. The key understandings highlighted in the model, are evidence based actions to improve wellbeing, and individuals are encouraged to build these into their everyday lives.

Design/methodology/approach – the Partners in Positive Ageing wellbeing model was introduced to staff and residents throughout May-July 2010. The teachings and learnings from the model take on strengths based approach. Knowing residents and staff strengths and talents is a significant part of the picture when it comes to understanding how to build and sustain good wellbeing, which in turn leads to ‘being happier.’ Staff and residents participated in surveys, feedback questionnaires and education and training evaluations to appraise the value of the model and associated programs.

Findings – overwhelmingly the results from surveys/questionnaires/evaluations are very positive. Staff and residents were able to articulate the significant benefits that align with research findings supporting the key understandings to a good life. Staff and residents were able to articulate associated improvements in their life since the implementation of the model of wellbeing.

Originality/value – in this model of wellbeing, expectations shift. The key difference is it is a partnership between staff and residents. There is a shared responsibility for health and wellbeing. Overall the model adopts a positive view of ageing and aims to provide care in an environment in which residents are encouraged to say yes to activity and engagement more of the time.

This approach to the health and wellbeing of residents and staff prepares us for a future where:

• There are increasing numbers of people over 80 requiring support to live well
• The people who will be over 80 in the decades to come (baby boomers) will be more outspoken, more demanding and need to be more self-reliant in their own care
• Staff are ageing as well and the program encourages them towards ‘successful and active ageing’ (a population health approach).

PiPA is an initiative that takes a population health approach to ageing, articulates person-centred care in ways that empower both residents and staff and paves the way to a new paradigm in residential care, on which enables longevity with optimal well-being.