Stakeholder engagement: supporting innovation in aged care

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Health Services Research
• Innovation Implementation Science
• Stakeholder Engagement in Healthcare

Background:

• The aged care sector faces significant challenges including increased demand, workforce shortages, funding issues, and evolving client expectations.
• Meaningful stakeholder engagement is crucial for driving innovation in aged care, but current practices are often unclear and perceived as superficial.
• Addressing these challenges necessitates a deeper understanding of effective stakeholder engagement strategies within aged care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of stakeholder engagement in aged care innovations.
• To identify who is engaged, the methods used for engagement, supporting factors, and resulting outcomes.
• To provide insights for improving the inclusivity and effectiveness of stakeholder involvement in aged care.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive secondary analysis was performed on data from a scoping review.
• The review focused on factors influencing the implementation of innovations in community and residential aged care.
• Inductive coding and validation with a Research Advisory Group (including aged care clients and staff) were employed.

Main Results:

• Aged care staff were the most frequently engaged stakeholders; clients, families, and the community were less involved.
• Open communication, collaboration, clear information, resources, and leadership support positively influenced engagement and relationships.
• Effective engagement led to improved outcomes, enhanced staff capabilities, and increased stakeholder trust.

Conclusions:

• Meaningful stakeholder engagement is vital for successful innovation in the aged care sector.
• Expanding engagement to include clients, families, and the community can significantly enhance innovation outcomes.
• Adopting interactive and inclusive engagement approaches promotes equitable participation and leverages diverse perspectives for innovation success.