Older Australians are set to play a pivotal role in improving aged care services by participating as citizen scientists in a new initiative led by the Australian Institute of Health Innovation (AIHI). The project, funded with a $534,527 Discovery Grant from the Australian Research Council (ARC), will empower residents in aged care and their families to document and share their care experiences.
The research, led by AIHI’s Associate Professor Magda Raban, will result in the creation of a digital platform for participants to provide detailed accounts of their experiences and preferences. This platform is designed to capture nuanced insights into care practices, focusing initially on infection management and antibiotic use in aged care facilities. These areas have been identified as significant concerns, with issues like overuse of antibiotics and infection control frequently impacting residents’ quality of life.
“Details of our healthcare experiences often go unheard,” said Associate Professor Raban. “This project will give older Australians and their families the tools to share these vital details, contributing to the design of more person-centred care practices.”
The project team also includes Professor Johanna Westbrook, Dr Amy Nguyen, and Associate Professor Annie Lau, all from AIHI, who will collaborate with residents and their families in the co-development of the platform. This approach is expected to ensure the platform is intuitive and tailored to meet the needs of those in aged care settings.
Addressing infection control in aged care
A key focus of the initiative will be addressing infection management, particularly for urinary and respiratory tract infections. These conditions are prevalent in aged care and are often associated with uncertainty regarding appropriate treatment and antibiotic use.
The citizen science model, which places residents and families at the heart of data collection, is anticipated to have significant implications for the future of aged care. By leveraging personal accounts, the research aims to inform policies and practices that can lead to improved care delivery and better health outcomes.
“This innovative approach has the potential to transform aged care and could serve as a model for other healthcare settings in the future.”
Associate Professor Raban
The ARC’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Richard Johnson, announced the project’s funding on November 26, 2024, highlighting its potential to drive positive change in the aged care sector.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to make aged care more responsive to the needs of residents and their families, ensuring care is both effective and compassionate. By involving older Australians directly in the research process, the project emphasises their agency and valuable insights in shaping the future of aged care.
