The Canadian Long-Term Care Sector Collapse from COVID-19: Innovations to Support People in the Workforce

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health Policy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exposed and worsened systemic issues within Canada's long-term care (LTC) sector.
• Chronic under-staffing in LTC facilities negatively impacts resident care quality and staff well-being.
• The need for workforce support and sector rejuvenation in long-term care is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate innovative, evidence-informed solutions in Canadian long-term care homes.
• To address the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic in the LTC sector.
• To provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and LTC decision-makers.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative research initiative involving diverse Canadian researchers.
• Implementation of evidence-informed solutions across various long-term care settings.
• Focus on addressing systemic and structural issues in LTC.

Main Results:

• The study identified critical areas for intervention within the LTC sector.
• Findings highlight the detrimental effects of under-staffing on residents and staff.
• The research underscores the urgent need for policy and operational changes.

Conclusions:

• Immediate policy and decision-maker action is required to rejuvenate Canada's LTC sector.
• Addressing chronic under-staffing is paramount to improving care quality and supporting LTC staff.
• Innovative, evidence-informed solutions are essential for the future of long-term care.