Effectiveness of an aged simulation training suit to support development of compassion and person-centred care in the aged-care workforce

Objectives: The Australian aged-care sector employees are diverse, with a wide range of training backgrounds and work experience. Compassion and person-centred care (PCC) are essential for quality care. Effective training is required to facilitate compassion and PCC in the diverse workforce. Methods: Eligible staff members (n = 732) participated in a 3-hour training activity using an aged simulation training suit. Training sessions were offered at eight ACH Group residential care sites. During the training, staff were required to complete functional daily tasks while wearing the suit. Pre- and post-training questionnaires were used to assess change in staff members’ self-assessment of compassion and PCC. The Compassion Competence Scale and the Person-centred Care Assessment Tool were used to assess compassion and PCC. Results: In total, 160 (22%) staff members participated in the evaluation of the training. Overall, participants reported significant improvements in self-reported compassion (p < 0.01) and PCC after the training (p < 0.001), compassionate communication (p < 0.001) and insight (p < 0.001), and ability to personalise care (p < 0.001) and in recognising patients’ environmental accessibility (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The simulation activity improved aspects of compassion and person-centred care for the aged-care workforce. Further research is required to understand whether these changes are reflected in daily practice.