The digital transformation of aged care is a significant cultural change that requires careful consideration and collaboration. It’s not just about developing and iterating new products; it’s equally about how these innovations are implemented within the sector. The recent implementation framework developed by NARI and others highlights the importance of this approach, acknowledging the unique challenges that come with introducing new technologies in aged care.
Addressing Concerns with Change in Aged Care
Change, particularly in aged care, often brings inherent concerns. It’s natural for people to be cautious about adopting new methods that have yet to be thoroughly tested in their own settings. The introduction of digital tools in aged care raises valid questions: Will the new software cost me time? Will it force me to learn new systems that I don’t have the time or mental space to master? Will I be left behind as these digital changes unfold? These concerns must be acknowledged and addressed through a thoughtful, participatory change management approach.
Building on the Past for a Better Future
Software providers and product developers should not simply discard the methods of the past. Instead, they should critically examine these methods, keeping what remains useful and building upon it. Traditional approaches have their strengths and can be carefully woven into digital solutions, providing familiarity and comfort for users. This blending of old and new helps ensure that the transition to digital tools is smoother and more accepted by those who will be using them.
Inclusive Onboarding and Training
Onboarding, initial data collection, training, and education need to be offered in ways that meet the diverse needs of the staff and customers within an aged care organization. This often includes accommodating more than one generation and addressing varying levels of digital literacy. A participatory approach to training and product feedback is essential to ensure that no user feels left behind or unheard.
Addressing Accessibility and Literacy Challenges
In the realm of digital health and aged care, many individuals still lack access to email, mobile phones, or online platforms. Any digital solution in these areas must address these challenges if it is to be adopted at scale. Additionally, the cultural and language differences within our communities, coupled with the varying levels of digital literacy across generations, must be addressed from the outset. The mission of introducing software or digital transformation in aged care must be to bridge these divides, ensuring that the innovation is inclusive and accessible to all.
Balancing Cybersecurity and User Experience
Balancing cybersecurity with user experience is a key challenge in the digital transformation of aged care. These two aspects can sometimes be at odds, but a bottom-up approach that involves customer input from the beginning can help ensure that cybersecurity and privacy regulations are addressed in a way that is practical and user-friendly. This approach includes educating decision-makers about security and privacy, customizing software where necessary, and providing detailed implementation plans agreed upon by all team members at the start of any project.
Fostering Community and Collaboration
While this approach may take more time, it fosters a stronger sense of community and collaboration. By listening to the voices of those we serve, software developers and digital health innovators can create solutions that truly meet the needs of the community. At Touchstone Life Care, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. We work hand in hand with our users to shape the future of advance care planning.
A Joint Approach to Implementation
We don’t just implement changes—we rigorously test every feature and provide comprehensive training to ensure that all stakeholders are confident and comfortable with our platform. Continuous feedback is at the heart of our process, allowing us to iterate and improve our services one step at a time, always guided by what our customers need. Our approach to implementation, which includes highlighting the real problems that need to be addressed, is central to what we do and how we work with our partners. We believe that by collaborating closely, we can create meaningful, lasting change in the aged care sector.
Making the switch to digital
Touchstone Life Care (TLC) supports organisations with a comprehensive digital advance care planning system and online advance care training designed specifically for aged care providers. TLC provides one-click compliance, with reports easily downloadable as evidence for accreditation purposes. Integrating with existing clinical IT systems, TLC is suitable for residential as well as home care providers, to assist in meeting compliance obligations. TLC’s digital training and technology is also eligible for tax rebates.
Book a demonstration today to find out more about why residential aged care providers are making the switch to digital advance care planning.
