Culture Change in Aged-Care Facilities: A Café's Contribution to Transforming the Physical and Social Environment |
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Authors: | Alexa Andrew Lorraine Ritchie |
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Institution: | 1. Senior Occupational Therapy Lecturer, Otago Polytechnic, Dunedin, New Zealand;2. Professional Nursing Advisor, New Zealand Nurses Organisation, Dunedin, New Zealand |
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Abstract: | Objective: To discuss the potential of a café on the premises of an aged-care facility as a vehicle for culture change. Method: Secondary analysis of primary qualitative data that explored the value of a café in an aged-care facility, compared with culture-change principles established from a literature review. Results: Secondary analysis established congruence between culture-change principles and the themes established in the primary qualitative data. A café, in one aged-care facility, has facilitated the following dimensions of culture change for residents: individualized care, facilitation of meaningful relationships, opportunities for participation in life roles, and creation of a sense of belonging. Conclusion: Culture change can be achieved through environmental innovations, such as a café, where food and dining maximize social opportunities and create a homelike environment that facilitates continuation of residents' identity. |
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Keywords: | Residential aged care Culture change Food and dining Physical and social environment Homelike environment Relationships |
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