Strategies and Supports to Improve Retention of Personal Care Workers in Residential Aged Care

Insights From a Qualitative Study

Bibliographic Data

ID21461027
AuthorsBritt O’Keefe (0000-0002-2558-6453, Deakin University, corresponding author), Eva Yn Yuen (0000-0002-7956-5797, Deakin University), Susan Perlen (0000-0001-7814-9743, Deakin University), Alison M Hutchinson (0000-0001-5065-2726, Deakin University)
Year2026
Volume48
Issue5-6
Pages335-347
Publication date2026-06-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueResearch on Aging (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0164-0275 • E-ISSN: 1552-7573
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/01640275251383540
PMID41061704
OpenAlexW4414946013
LanguageEN
References cited31

To identify strategies and supports to enhance retention and reduce turnover of personal care workers in residential aged care. Interviews were conducted from August 2023 to September 2024 with 20 former personal care workers who had worked in residential aged care. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Five major themes were identified: (1) managers who engage with residents, (2) managers who value, recognize and support personal support workers, (3) comprehensive onboarding and continuing training programs, (4) strengthening the workforce and working arrangements, and (5) inclusive, collaborative and respectful work culture. Persistent workforce shortages in residential aged care underscore the need for targeted strategies and supports to retain staff. The findings of this study illustrate strategies and supports to promote personal care worker retention, offering practical guidance for further consideration by residential aged care operators, policymakers, and researchers

Aged care · Economic shortage · Onboarding · Personal care · Qualitative research · Thematic analysis · Workforce · Geriatric Care and Nursing Homes · Retirement, Disability, and Employment · Workplace Health and Well-being

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