Implementing Changes
Research and practice evidence have great potential to enhance care and outcomes for older people and to improve care and service outcomes. Research evidence can show if practice or processes are effective. It is the use of evidence to guide change activities that characterises implementation strategies. We should all be committed to change activities that seek to implement evidence-based approaches within aged care.
There are different approaches to implementing changes in aged care. Many organisations are familiar with change management activities, audits and PDSA cycles. There is also a growing body of research on implementation, knowledge translation and evidence-based practice. However, implementation is complex. Change takes time and even the simplest of changes requires both thoughtful planning and genuine commitment. This is particularly true when we are seeking to change people’s behaviours, individually and collectively.
Planning an implementation project
When undertaking implementation projects, it is important to understand what the problem or issue is, what evidence is available and what you want to achieve. You then need a systematic and planned approach to undertaking the work. To get you started we have created a short training module introducing the main stages of an implementation project.
Evidence snacks
Planning an implementation project
Academic papers about Implementation Approaches
- Davy C, Windle A, Marshall A, Harvey G. Leading the way: Implementing aged care innovations. JBI Evid Implement. 2025 Jan 1;23(1):119-130.
- Meyer C, Ogrin R, Golenko X, Cyarto E, Paine K, Walsh W, et al. A codesigned fit-for-purpose implementation framework for aged care. J Eval Clin Pract. 2022 Jun;28(3):421-435.
- Porritt K, McArthur A, Lockwood C, Munn Z. JBI’s approach to evidence implementation: A 7-phase process model to support and guide getting evidence into practice. JBI Evid Implement. 2023 Mar 1;21(1):3-13.
- Windle A, Marshall A, de la Perrelle L, Champion S, Ross PDS, Harvey G, et al. Factors that influence the implementation of innovation in aged care: A scoping review. JBI Evid Implement. 2023 Dec 29;22(1):61–80.
Page updated 06 June 2026