Freemasons Homes for the Aged:
Howard Solomon Hostel and Nursing Home

Howard Solomon Homes Research Partnership with the Centre for Research on Ageing

Evidence to Support Best Practice

The research and development partnership between the Centre for Research on Ageing (previously the Centre for Research on Aged Care Services) and Howard Solomon Homes continues to grow and has achieved benefits for staff and residents. Both partners are keen to extend the work and are developing the framework of a new partnership.

The partnership has, through meetings, literature/document review, discussion and presentation, facilitated other related activities such as: explore different models of service delivery; review of staff development activities to sustain staff attitudes and perceptions; and access/share information to support the organisation's redevelopment project.

In a recent review by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency, the work being done by Howard Solomon Homes was acknowledged as an exciting and innovative approach. Kim Oates, Director of Care said she knows that staff and resident satisfaction are closely aligned. She believes that this project is empowering staff to take a more flexible approach to care, and this is welcomed by the residents. Staff are committed to quality care, but sometimes get caught up in the 'tasks' that need to be done, rather than looking at the ultimate outcome - quality of life and wellbeing.

This research partnership, led by Associate Professor Barbara Horner, means that Howard Solomon Homes has access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise within the Centre as well as its associates and other partners. Research activity will involve staff who will be encouraged to identify and engage in areas of interest. Dr Horner said, "We are really excited about this partnership. Others within the industry could take a leaf out of their book and realize that an investment in evidence-based practice is critical to quality service and business sustainability."

Further information is available from Freemasons Homes for the Aged: Howard Solomon Hostel and Nursing Home.