The Pioneer Network has completed a research project exploring consumer knowledge of culture change in long-term care facilities.

The study — which consisted of a series of discussion groups attended by consumers — found that nearly four out of five consumers wanted to learn more about culture change: what it looks like and how providers pay for it.

What the Study Found

“A major finding of this project was the need to educate consumers about options,” said Joanne Rader, the project director.

“Those who had been exposed to the traditional model were unaware that things could be different. Those who had little contact with nursing homes were surprised that there could be such a lack of choice about basics such as when you decided to get up and go to bed,” Rader said.

As a result of the study, Caring for the Ages, the monthly publication of the American Medical Directors Association, has begun publishing a series of informational tear-outs on culture change. The first installment, “Person-Centered Care: What It Means to You and Your Family,” was published in the March 2010 issue.

“I am really excited about this project,” said Susan Misiorski, PHI National Director of Training and Organizational Development. “As consumers become more knowledgeable about what is possible to expect from the support systems available to them, they will seek out only those organizations that embrace the principles and practices of the culture change movement.”

Conducting the Discussion Groups

During the course of the year-long study, the Pioneer Network brought consumers together to conduct small-group discussion meetings.

In all, approximately 500 consumers attended the meetings, which were held in private homes in Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Oregon.

The research project “represents a major undertaking by our organization to begin focusing on increasing consumer awareness and demand for culture change,” said Bonnie Kantor, the Pioneer Network’s executive director.

The Pioneer Network hopes to begin the second phase of the project later this year. The second phase will focus on educating consumers about culture change and how they can advocate for it.

The research project, entitled “Changing the Culture of Aging: Taking a First Step to Creating Knowledgeable Consumers,” was funded by the Picker Institute, a foundation that sponsors research pertaining to patient-centered care.

For more information on culture change in nursing homes, visit PHI’s website.

– by Matthew Ozga