Optimising The Implementation Of A Dementia Care Education Programme For Healthcare Assistants (Home Support): Lessons From A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract Background Healthcare Assistants (Home Support) provide a significant level of non-clinical formal care to people with dementia at home. Training is paramount if this workforce is to provide care effectively and achieve the ideals of the Irish National Dementia Strategy. This study examined the process of implementing a QQI-FET level 5 accredited dementia home care education programme for Healthcare Assistants (Home Support), specifically designed with an emphasis on self-development and ethical and strengths-based approaches to care. Methods This study was primarily a qualitative study conducted over five months. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders (n=16) involved in the programme’s implementation. Focus groups (n=3) were conducted with 11 programme learners. Data on programme take-up, completion and retention rates were available for review, as were reports from external reviewers, and a sample of evaluation forms completed by learners. Results The programme content and its delivery were highly regarded. Implementing the programme took much longer than planned due to the Covid-19 pandemic, putting recruitment processes in place, and problems recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals to facilitate supervisory sessions. Organizational support, and motivated healthcare assistants with positive attitudes towards training were perceived to facilitate programme uptake and completion. A range of barriers were perceived to act as disincentives to programme participation, e.g. lack of opportunities for career progression. There was strong support for rolling out the accredited programme nationwide and maintaining its in-person format. An alternative shortened non-accredited version of the programme would be welcomed by stakeholders in some areas. Conclusion This qualitative study provides a rich and nuanced perspective on a dementia home care education programme for healthcare assistants (Home Support), challenges encountered during programme implementation and changes needed to optimize implementation. The findings can be used to support strategic and operational decision-making for enhancing programme implementation.