Feasibility and acceptability of WeCare Mentoring, an online peer mentoring program for aged care support workers.

Abstract

Background and objectives: In recognition of the aging population and aged care workforce shortages, calls have been made for responsive and effective strategies for this workforce group. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an online mentoring program for aged care support workers serving older adults in New Zealand residential care facilities.

Research design and methods: This mixed-methods study consisted of (1) a nonrandomized single-arm intervention study, with outcome measurement at baseline, 3- and 6-month (Satisfaction with Life Scale, Generic Job Satisfaction, Perceived Stress Scale, and General Self-Efficacy Scale) and (2) a post-intervention qualitative descriptive study exploring perceived acceptability and feasibility aspects of the proposed intervention. Participants met once a month, for 30-60 min. They followed a program manual to work on self-identified goals.

Results: Thirty-eight support workers enrolled, and 22 of them took part and completed the 6-month program. The recruitment target was reached within the proposed 3-month timeframe. Data collection procedures were considered practical and convenient. Participants (13 mentees and 9 mentors) reported that the program was appealing and relevant, its duration and intensity appropriate, and the online delivery acceptable. Participants proposed refinements to improve their experience further. Exploratory outcomes analysis found all measures trended in the expected direction.

Discussion and implications: The WeCare Mentoring Program was found to be a feasible and acceptable intervention. Participants reported several improvements in their well-being and their caregiving-related skills. The next step is to test the intervention's effectiveness in a definitive controlled trial or quasi-experimental study. If future efficacy trials prove successful, this program can offer a much-needed support to the aged care workforce, and lead to better outcomes for them and the people they care for.