What has changed under the new strengthened Quality Standards for aged care? 

The Quality Standards for aged care – including residential aged care – have been updated to make them clearer and easier to measure. They now focus more strongly on the things that matter most to older people, like safety, dignity, choice and food. Here are the main changes, and how Anglicare is meeting these requirements.

Fewer, clearer standards: The Standards have been reduced from eight to seven, with clearer expectations. Anglicare provides ongoing training and support to staff, as well as regularly reviewing processes and policies to ensure a consistent high quality of standard is experienced across all  our homes.

Residents at the centre: The new Standards put older people’s rights and preferences first. Anglicare introduced the Rhythm of Life® program in 2012 which is our model of person-centred care and we have since launched other initiatives like WElders, our consumer advisory body which commenced in 2021.

Diversity and dementia care: At Anglicare, our principle “Everybody has a unique story” has underpinned our approach to person-centred care since 2012. Staff take the time to understand what is important to every new person moving into care, what gives them purpose and joy and identifying how we can honour them. In 2012 we integrated some of the Montessori principles into our aged care homes to support memory retention and independence. Anglicare is intentional in its design and layout of homes to create dementia-friendly environments, including secure outdoor spaces, way-finding signage, memory boxes, innovative technology like the Tovertafel and familiar home-like furniture.

Clinical care: Clinical care now has its own Standard, covering medication, safety, and palliative care. Anglicare has strong clinical governance processes and oversight of care which include:    

- Registered Nurses ensure clinical safety is maintained, including management of fall prevention strategies, wound management, pain management and safe use of medicines.

- Infection prevention and control (IPC) is supported in all homes by a clinical IPC Lead, and a Senior IPC professional that provides oversight and guidance.

- Palliative and end-of-life care that supports dignity and comfort is provided with the support of a Palliative Nurse Consultant.

- Specialist support to residents living with cognitive impairment.

Governance and accountability:  This Standard outlines clear expectations for leadership, accountability, and transparency in the way care is delivered. Anglicare has a governing body that actively oversees the safety, quality and outcomes of care provided to residents.  

- We listen to residents and their families, and use their feedback to shape how we do things at Anglicare.

- Anglicare’s leaders, managers and staff are provided with the education and support they need to ensure they have the right skills and support to deliver safe, high-quality care and services to residents.

- We have transparent and detailed reporting and monitoring of performance and risks for continuous improvement.

Food and nutrition: Meals now have their own Standard, recognising the importance of good food and mealtimes. Each month Anglicare runs food and dining focus groups where residents can provide feedback and assist with menu planning. Our chefs consult with dietitians to ensure meals meet nutritional needs of residents, and there are a variety of options available for people with special dietary needs, or who require textured modified meals. Each home has a 24/7 snack bar with a range of healthy and tasty snacks for residents to eat whenever they choose.

Clearer assessments: Providers will now be graded in more detail, with results shown publicly via the government’s Find a provider tool. Anglicare welcomes this, as we already aim for openness and high-quality care across all our homes. 

Learn more about Anglicare’s philosophy of care here.