Preparing for implementation in aged care: a readiness assessment tool

Many factors can influence the implementation of innovations in aged care.

This study aimed to develop a comprehensive Readiness Assessment Tool (Tool) to support aged care organizations' implementation efforts.

Our study employed a structured, two-stage approach. In Stage 1, we conducted a secondary analysis of a scoping review to identify factors that indicate implementation readiness. The findings were synthesized and refined through consultations with a Research Advisory Group. We then applied a modified Delphi technique in Stage 2 to refine and validate the Tool. Participants were involved in two rounds of surveys where they could rate each statement's importance and provide detailed feedback, ensuring the Tool's clarity, relevance, and practicality.

The secondary analysis of the scoping review yielded 93 statements encapsulating key readiness factors for implementing innovations in aged care. Two Delphi study rounds reduced this to 51 essential statements organized into five key categories: individual attitudes and capabilities, organizational context, characteristics and fit of the innovation, interpersonal interactions and connections, and implementation strategies.

Our study presents a comprehensive, user-friendly Tool specifically designed to guide the preparation for implementing innovations in aged care. This new Tool can enhance the capacity of aged care organizations to implement innovations effectively and sustainably, supporting improved care quality and operational resilience. Future work could involve longitudinal studies to validate the Tool's impact on innovation processes and outcomes across various aged care settings.

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A393.