Models of Care for Indigenous Populations in Residential Aged Care Settings

• Main Authors: MacAndrew, Margaret, Brooks, Deborah, Cox, Leonie, Parker, Christina, Johnston, Sandra, Brodie, Melissa, Radbourne, Catherine, Sciuto, Anna, Charles, Belinda, Leitch, Jonathan, Beattie, Elizabeth
• Format: Conference Object
• Language: unknown
• Published: 2021
• Subjects: Norway; New Zealand; First Nations; Alaska
• Online Access: https://eprints.qut.edu.au/228397/

Background: Respecting and meeting cultural needs is an important aspect of care. However, little is known about models of aged care that promote quality of life for Indigenous populations. Aim: This review aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesise evidence regarding models of care that promote quality of life for Indigenous populations living in residential aged care. Methods: Systematic database searches and hand-searching were used to find published and unpublished studies. Papers meeting the eligibility criteria were selected following screening of titles and abstracts. Data were appraised, extracted, and synthesised using JBI methods for systematic reviews. Results: A total of 2239 papers were identified, of which 18 (11 qualitative studies and 7 reports) were included. Populations included Indigenous/First Nations’ Elders from North America, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Norway, New Zealand, and Australia. Elements of care that are important include: 1) the co-design and collaboration with Indigenous communities and organisations to help ensure culturally safe care; 2) the employment of local Indigenous aged care workers; 3) care that considers individual needs and is respectful of cultural, spiritual and religious values, traditional activities and practices, including those surrounding end of life; 4) residential aged care embed trauma informed care policies, practices and staff are trained to deliver culturally safe services 5) connection to culture and sense of belonging is promoted through sustained connection with family, kin and Indigenous communities. Conclusion: These findings will be used to inform the development of recommendations for Aged Care Quality and Safety Standards specific to Indigenous care.