Description
The definitive reference for spiritual care in aged care!
The identification of spiritual needs and the offering of spiritual care is the responsibility of all care givers and must be undertaken in ways that are appropriate to their role.
In 2019, the new Aged Care Quality Standards came into force, in which the notion of spiritual care became fully embedded into Australian regulations. The National Guidelines document provides a foundational understanding of spirituality, spiritual care and the importance of respect in all contexts.
An extensive search of the academic and ‘grey’ literature indicated that no guidelines were available that specifically related to spiritual care for older people living in residential aged care or receiving care and support at home. This gap led to a successful funding application through the Australian Government Department of Social Services (later changed to the Department of Health) to develop National Guidelines for Spiritual Care in Aged Care. As spirituality is integral to quality of life and wellbeing, it should be accessible to all older people in way that is meaningful to their beliefs, culture and circumstances.
The Guidelines were developed following a literature review to establish an evidence-based framework and fieldwork that involved close consultation with the sector:
- Older people and their carers/representatives, staff, volunteers and aged care providers were consulted through focus groups, interviews and surveys;
- An Expert Advisory Panel steered development of the content, format and structure of the Guidelines;
- The Draft Guidelines were published and feedback sought through submissions and survey;
- The Guidelines were piloted and the outcomes incorporated into revisions;
- The Guidelines were subjected to technical review and critical analysis prior to publication.
The Guidelines were officially launched on 9 August 2016 by Nick Ryan, CEO of the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency.
