[Sectoral influence on the organizational and managerial context of nursing homes in Wallonia]

The growing aging population is increasing the demand for nursing home placements, while these institutions face persistent difficulties in recruiting and retaining nursing and paramedical staff. This study explored whether the organizational and managerial context (OMC) influences staff attitudes, such as job satisfaction, commitment, and intention to leave, and compared these perceptions across for-profit, non-profit, and public ownership models. An online survey using the validated COMEt© questionnaire was distributed to nursing and paramedical staff in Walloon nursing homes. Among 386 responses, 11 of 18 OMC dimensions were rated as underdeveloped, particularly leadership, communication, recognition, and role clarity. Participants expressed a need for greater autonomy, clearer task distribution, and more training opportunities. Directors were consistently evaluated less favorably than head nurses, revealing a leadership gap. Non-profit institutions received the most positive ratings, especially regarding hierarchical support, satisfaction, and retention intentions. Improving the OMC appears crucial to strengthening staff satisfaction, retention, and ultimately the quality of care for the elderly.