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  • Research & Innovation

Overview

In Canada, the proportion of older adults (over 65 years of age) will rise from 12% to 25% in 50 years, with 85 percent of seniors having more than one chronic condition.This changing demographic will require an adaptation of current care delivery, the integration of research, and creative innovative solutions to improve and transform the current continuing care system. The Brenda Strafford Foundation's (BSF) strategic plan prioritizes research, education and innovation in it's main strategic goals. Furthermore, a commitment to innovation and research is represented in the mission, vision, and values with the ultimate goal to advance the quality of life for those we serve.

Download Brochure (PDF)

Our Research & Innovation Model

The Brenda Strafford Foundation has identified three vectors for the Research and Innovation Department:

1. Research

Research projects are rigorous and follow a specified research design. They are conducted in collaboration with external research partners and associates. 

2. Innovation/Proof of Concept Projects

Innovation/proof of concept projects consist of beta-testing or pilot projects that are managed internally at a smaller scale than research projects. These projects aim to provide evidence that demonstrate a concept is feasible. Some examples include testing various different types of technologies and obtaining end-user feedback from residents, families and staff.

3. Quality Improvement Initiatives

Quality improvement initiatives focus on improving quality of care and quality of life outcomes. Continuous quality improvement underpins all aspects of the organization’s operations. We exemplify exceptional clinical care, consistently exceeding health service standards. We are dedicated to continually implement projects to enhance the care and services provided to our residents in line with evidence-based, leading best practices.

Our Research Themes

Six themes have been identified as areas of focus for research. These themes were developed through engagement with researchers, stakeholders, staff, residents and families.

Enhance Dementia Care

This theme focuses on generating new knowledge to improve the quality of life of residents living with dementia. Research on service models, risk reduction strategies, and care plans will be pursued to address gaps in care for all stages of dementia (early-late). Incorporating evidence-informed strategies that improve the experiences and quality of care for residents and caregivers will be central to this theme.

Optimizing Technology, Design and Service Systems

This theme will target research and innovation opportunities that advance technology and enable design thinking to contribute to health aging, increasing safety and improving the quality of life of older adults. Examining service delivery design, team composition and optimizing workflow processes to maximize time for care for residents are central components of this theme.

Transitions in Care for Older Adults

This theme explores the movement across the continuum of care for older adults with the primary goal to improve safety. Inefficient transitions of care present a risk for miscommunication, medical errors, duplication of services, and discontinuity of care. Exploring alternative solutions and service models to overcome these barriers would be the key areas of focus in this platform.

Social Engagement

This theme will be centered on understanding the social needs of older adults including those living with early to late stage dementia. Determining different modes of social engagement, mechanisms to promote social engagement and specifically the impact of social factors on improved outcomes are central areas in this platform.

Falls Research

This theme encompasses falls research which aims to examine new and innovative environmental and technological solutions to predict, prevent, and decrease the number of falls and hospitalizations due to falls in a long term care and supportive living setting.

Resident and Family Centered Care (The BSF Way)

This theme is centered around our approach to person-centered care, services and physical environments organizationally, and preparing for the changing needs of the next generation of older adults entering our care homes.

Future Directions

  • Implement the 'Continuing Care Unit of the Future' which involves creating a dedicated space within a continuing care environment conducive to enhancing care processes and services and identifying areas and opportunities for improvement. The vision involves fostering an environment where researchers and innovators can test and trial new
  • ideas, prototypes, technology, products, processes and care delivery models.
  • Implement additional research initiatives at The Brenda Strafford Foundation sites aligned with our six primary Research Themes.
  • Develop and implement a long-term research plan within The Brenda Strafford Foundation which will outline research and industry priorities and strategies to align with key stakeholder groups.
  • Disseminate information and lessons learned from initiatives and projects with all interested stakeholders.
  • Continue to build research and innovation capacity, including implementation of proof of concept and additional quality improvement initiatives to enhance quality of care and safety provided to residents.
  • Further develop an “Integrated Continuing Care in the Community” service model which includes implementation of initiatives to support individuals living in the community for as long as possible and bridge transitions across the continuum of care (i.e. Dementia Friendly Communities Initiative, Elder Friendly Communities Initiative).

Industry Leading Achievements and Recognition

Alberta Continuing Care Association ‘Innovator of the Year’ 2020 and 2018

Accreditation Canada ‘Accredited with Exemplary Status’ 2018

Health Standards Organization ‘Leading Practice’ for Palliative Care 2018

Health Quality Council of Alberta ‘Patient Experience Award’ for Palliative Care 2018

Contact Us

If you are interested in collaborating with us or to inquire about Research and Innovation Projects, please contact us. 

Navjot Virk RN, MN
Research and Innovative Practice Manager
Direct: 403.536.8681 | Email: navjot.virk@theBSF.ca

Research & Innovation

Research & Innovation Overview Research at the University of Calgary Research at our Manors Research & Innovation Partnerships Dementia Friendly Communities HealthTech Home Innovation Project
The Brenda Strafford Foundation Ltd.
4628 Montgomery Blvd NW
Calgary, AB T3B 0K7
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105198873RR0001
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In the spirit of respect, reconciliation and gratitude, we honour and acknowledge that our services are provided on the traditional territories of Treaty 7, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy comprising the Siksika, Piikani and Kainai First Nations, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda First Nation including the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Good Stoney Bands. These territories are also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3. We are grateful for the many First Nations who have lived in and cared for these lands for generations. We acknowledge that we have ongoing responsibilities to protect, honour and celebrate all of life within our shared communities.

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