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.
The Brenda Strafford Foundation has identified three vectors for the Research and Innovation Department:
Research projects are rigorous and follow a specified research design. They are conducted in collaboration with external research partners and associates.
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.
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.
Six themes have been identified as areas of focus for research. These themes were developed through engagement with researchers, stakeholders, staff, residents and families.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
