Aged Care Research Named Top Viewed Article

In 2024, Wiley Publishing recognised the paper as being in the top 10% of readership across its portfolio, signalling growing interest and urgency in the sector to address this critical care dimension. Published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry in December 2023, the review found that despite several countries recommending or mandating trauma-informed (TIC) care in residential aged care (RAC), there is a notable lack of formal interventions or frameworks to support implementation. The study highlights that while awareness of TIC is increasing globally, the development and integration of practical models into RAC settings are lagging.

In response to the 148 recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Australian Government has committed to embedding ‘trauma aware, healing informed’ approaches within the revised Aged Care Standards and forthcoming Aged Care Act, due to take effect later this year. This marks a significant shift in acknowledging and addressing the complex histories and needs of older Australians in RAC settings.

However, while policy direction is clear, practical guidance on how to implement TIC in RAC remains limited. As Australia moves toward a more trauma-informed aged care system, this research provides a timely and necessary foundation for bridging the gap between policy and practice. Continued research, collaboration, and co-designed strategies will be essential to ensure older people receive care that truly acknowledges and responds to their lived experiences.

By Ann MacRae