Job satisfaction and regulation in the aged care sector: staff perspectives
-
Published:2023-12-15
Issue:1
Volume:23
Page:
-
ISSN:1472-6963
-
Container-title:BMC Health Services Research
-
language:en
-
Short-container-title:BMC Health Serv Res
Author:
Cameron Emilie,Noble Natasha,Bryant Jamie,Norton Grace,Allanson OAM Viv,Sanson-Fisher Rob
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The quality of care provided in residential aged care facilities is largely dependent on the job satisfaction of employees and the organisational framework and systems that they provide care in. This study aimed to explore aged care staff perceptions of job satisfaction, regulation of the sector and the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey conducted in 2019-early 2020 with staff employed in various roles at residential aged care services in Australia. The study specific survey collected views and experiences about working in the aged care sector as well as information about their role.
Results
A total of 167 aged care staff completed the survey of which 71% worked in a direct care role. Most participants indicated they thought they were doing a worthwhile and important job (98%), were proud to work in the sector (94%) and found the job personally rewarding (94%). However, participants also reported feeling emotionally drained by the work (37%) and fatigued by having to face a day of work (30%). 72% of participants felt the Royal Commission would lead to improvements in the care provided to residents.
Conclusion
Aged care staff have an overall positive feeling towards their work. Additional support including increasing skills to deliver high-quality care, creating a supportive work environment to reduce job stressors and changes to the way the sector is regulated, are likely to lead to improved care.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Reference32 articles.
1. Dann T. Global elderly care in crisis. The Lancet. 2014;383(9921):927.
2. Australian institute of health and welfare. People using aged care. AIHW. 2021. https://www.gen-agedcaredata.gov.au/Topics/People-using-aged-care. Accessed October 10, 2022.
3. Department of health. 2020–21 Report on the operation of the aged care act 1997. Australian Government. 2021.
4. Department of health. 2020 Aged care workforce census report. Australian Government. 2020.
5. Productivity commission.: caring for older australians. In: Australian Government. 2011. https://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/completed/aged-care/report. Accessed November 28, 2022.