THE HEART MODEL

This model, informed by national stakeholders and an International expert Delphi Panel, makes a timely and an important contribution to that task. It brings together evidence, lived experience and expert consensus to articulate what holistic, person-centred spiritual care means in everyday aged care – and why it is fundamental to wellbeing, dignity and quality of life.

In my role, older people consistently tell me that social connection, emotional support and spiritual meaning matter as much as, if not more than, clinical care. Yet system settings continue to prioritise clinical tasks, often leaving these essential dimensions of care under-resourced and undervalued. This disconnect risks undermining the intent of reform.