Strategic partnerships enhance resources for care of rural-dwelling older adults

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to disseminate a new model that addresses the urgent social challenge of providing adequate long-term care in rural circumstances through innovative use of existing resources, and to suggest future research. Design/methodology/approach This paper is exploratory in and is based upon the analysis of qualitative observations (interviews and site visits) framed in the financial and operational records of the facility studied, macro- and micro-level demographics, and the scholarly and practice literatures. Findings Significant cost savings upon implementation, improvements in quality of care and both worker and client satisfaction were observed. Research limitations/implications The model has been in operation only one year; the trend has been positive, however, more research is needed to identify its stability and develop a more refined description of its components: while essential features of this innovative model can be applied in any residential long-term care situation, replicating its success is obviously linked with the skill and authority of the director. Evaluation research is currently in progress. Practical implications The paper suggests budget-neutral solutions to persistent challenges of caring for older adults in rural circumstances. Social implications Quality and financing of long-term residential care for elders is insufficient and worsening. This model addresses problems central to financing and quality of care by connecting existing resources in new ways. It does not require additional funding or changes in qualifications required for jobs. Originality/value The model is the original creation of a residential long-term care facility director working with a network of partnerships that he discovered and developed: partnerships include a broad range of organizations in the public and non-profit sectors, and the state university.