The Eden model: Innovation in Australian aged care?

The Eden model of care is part of discourse associated with innovation in aged care. There is, however, limited rigorous research to identify its essential claims. This paper examines the implementation of the Eden model in one integrated health service in rural Australia.

Data are derived from a small qualitative study that explored the views of staff.

Findings highlight that while the discourse of the Eden model is accessible to all staff within aged care and is linked to person-centred care, there is tension with this practice of aged care within the Australian context.

It is appropriate to ask if this form of care is innovative; what constitutes innovation and the importance of accounting for wider contextual factors. There is a need to build on this exploratory study with dialogue and research of not only the Eden model, but innovation in aged care within Australia.