Fit for purpose: selecting and adapting innovations for aged care

Aim: This review examines how innovation attributes can affect the implementation of innovations in aged care organizations. 

Introduction: Aged care organizations are increasingly implementing new care models and types of technology to improve care quality and sustain operational viability. However, selecting and implementing these innovations is complex, as integrating new practices within established systems requires careful consideration. Identifying specific attributes of innovations that influence implementation outcomes is essential to enhancing sustainability and success. 

Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis of a comprehensive scoping review on factors affecting innovation implementation in aged care. Key innovation attributes based on Greenhalgh's Diffusion of Innovation in Service Organizations model were used as a framework for analysis. 

Results: Of the 193 studies in the original scoping review, 123 provided insights into innovation attributes that influence implementation. Key attributes identified included the innovation's impact on workloads, its relevance to roles, and the level of staff knowledge and confidence to adopt within their context. Additionally, the included studies highlighted the importance of sufficient ongoing support, compatibility with existing organizational values and systems, and the innovation's adaptability to specific care settings. Balancing these innovation attributes presents unique opportunities and challenges within the aged care sector. 

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that successful innovation implementation in aged care requires a nuanced understanding of the innovation attributes that may improve the likelihood of successful implementation. This secondary review offers a practical framework for evaluating innovation suitability, supporting decision-makers in selecting innovations that align with the specific needs and context of aged care settings.