What does the term "culture change" refer to in long-term care?

The term "culture change" in long-term care refers to a transformation of services that are grounded in the values and preferences of the elderly residents. This concept emphasizes person-centered care, where individuals’ needs, choices, and dignity are prioritized over institutional routines. By shifting the focus to what residents value, long-term care facilities can create a more supportive and empowering environment, fostering autonomy and enhancing quality of life.

This approach often involves rethinking traditional practices in care delivery, promoting relationships between staff and residents, and encouraging participation from residents in their own care decisions. The essence of culture change is to create an atmosphere where residents feel respected, valued, and engaged, which is a significant departure from the more clinical, institutional approach that often dominated long-term care facilities in the past.