The Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (CLRI) led a half-day workshop on the essential principles of advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in the long-term care (LTC) context, designed to give LTC leaders and team members the tools and knowledge to create a more inclusive and affirming environment for residents, care partners and team members.

Supporting culture and identity is a critical aspect of person- and family-centred care. As the workforce and resident population continue to become increasingly diverse, the need for thoughtful, intentional efforts to support inclusion and belonging will only continue to increase. The workshop explored how to move forward from awareness-raising to action.

Coast-to-coast initiatives that are changing the culture of aging in Canada. The Trailblazers for Culture Change Awards recognize changemakers across Canada who are contributing to changing the culture of aging through initiatives, programs or day-to-day practice — any individual, team or organization involved in senior care or support across the continuum of care, including long-term care homes, retirement homes, day programs, community centres and other programs encouraging engagement in the community.

The 2024 awards were presented at the Walk With Me dinner and social. Nominations for the 2024 cycle closed on January 31, 2024.

Culture change is an ongoing, holistic journey that includes re-examining values, beliefs, attitudes, language, practices and policies, and working to implement the full range of efforts needed to transform the culture into a community where everyone thrives.