b'CULTURE CHANGE Culture change:A conversationBy Kristie Kimmett Dominique WilliamsT he Schlegel-UW ResearchRIA, and learn more about culturemedical model of care to a social Institute for Aging (RIA) is achange in long-term care andmodel of living. Historically, long-charitable foundation dedicatedretirement settings. term care homes were based on an to enhancing the care and quality ofacute care modelthe focus was life for older adults. The RIA developsCan you tell me a bit more abouton diagnosis and illness, staff were and shares resources, services,your background? encouraged to keep a professional education and training to supportI am a social worker by training anddistance from patients, and the this goal. The RIA is proud to be ahave worked with teams supportingoutcomes were based on treatments leader in the Canadian culture changeolder adults for almost 15 years inand medical decisions.movement, and many of the RIAsSouthwestern Ontario in both clinical initiatives fall under the umbrella ofand community settings. I enjoyWhen we move to a social model culture change.challenging deeply held beliefs aroundof living, high-quality medical care aging, older adults and dementia,is essential, but there is a broader As the Culture Change Manager atwhich is why I am so passionate aboutfocus that includes relationships the RIA, Dominique Williams worksculture change.between team members, residents, with long-term care homes that arevolunteers and family members. Team interested in positive change forCulture change is a term thatmembers are encouraged to bring their teams, connecting them withgets used in a variety of ways their authentic selves to work every resources, coaching services andwhat does culture change meanday, and relationships are developed education that are specific to eachin a long-term care setting? for the benefit of both team members homes needs. In this article, you In simplest terms, culture changeand residents, improving well-being will get to know Dominique and theis moving from an institutional orfor all. Outcomes are determined 30 LONG TERM CARE TODAY Spring/Summer 2022'