5 Top Tips for Leaders New to the Aged Care Sector

One leader expresses her introduction to leadership in aged care this way:

"Dealing with grief and loss in the context of aged care was a daunting concept for me from the start. I still remember how nervous I was when I was called to the bedside of a dying resident for the first time. I had only been working for a few days and was able to observe the other, more experienced worker at the time. I was standing in the background, quietly watching as my colleague talked to the family of this resident. Initial hesitation quickly dissipated, and I felt a sense of awe and peace as I witnessed the powerful effects of a gentle and caring presence. I learnt one of the most important lessons that day: Working in aged care is not about having the perfect words or answers for someone. It is about being fully present, ready to listen and observe, being comfortable with silence and able to hold space for whatever is going on for the person in front of me."

People may not always remember what we say to them, but they do remember how we make them feel. It is therefore so important that we listen with an uncluttered mind, willing to acknowledge someone’s struggle or pain, without trying to solve their situation or offer solutions.

Here are 5 top tips for leaders new to working in an aged care sector:

1. Be a calming presence

Slow down when you walk through your workplace without being in a hurry. Be willing to be interrupted as this is often the space where powerful interactions happen and when you get to hear what is really happening in the space. Be aware that you are able to bring joy and peace to someone simply by being present.

2. Observe and pay attention

Respond respectfully to whatever situation you find yourself in. Ask for permission before entering a room as this is their home. Acknowledge expressed emotions, for example “You look sad today, do you want to tell me why?” or “I have not seen you in the common area for a while, is there a reason for this?”

3. Be available

Ask staff, residents, and relatives how they are going and allow time for them to answer you. Smile and be available to listen. Set the culture of the environment. Others are looking to you to set the example. Affirm and encourage employees when you observe acts of kindness.

4. Listen at least twice as much as you talk

You have two ears and only one mouth for a reason! Listen without an agenda and without trying to think of the ‘perfect’ answer. Their need to be heard and understood is far greater than their need to hear your suggestions and solutions. Use active listening skills, repeat what you hear, reassure, and acknowledge their pain and suffering. 

5. Be fully present

Try to focus on the person in front of you, being present in the moment. Don’t think about what’s next on your ‘to do’ list. In his book ‘The Sacrament of the Present Moment’ by John- Pierre De Caussade (1989, viii) says, “the sacrament of the present moment, requires us to do our duty whatever it may be... not only this day or this hour but this minute, this very minute”. Awareness that there is no such thing as an insignificant moment will create in you an open and expectant posture for what might be next.

Helping yourself is as important as helping others   

If you are transferring your leadership skills into the aged care sector for the first time, remember you will need to practice good self care and surround yourself with a strong support system. Release Leadership has experienced coaches, mentors and supervisors available to support you in your leadership journey in aged care.

Book a FREE 30 minute Discovery call today.