This action research study was conducted to trial a strategy intended to support a consistent, high-quality, palliative approach for people with dementia drawing close to death-the implementation of a community of practice. Professionals from community/residential care and hospitals formed this community of practice, which took on the role of an action research group. The group was supported to identify and address practice problems. Four action plans were implemented; outcomes from two are reported. When actioning the plan 'providing education and information for the staff', the staff's ratings of sessions and resources were positive but impacts upon knowledge, views, or confidence were small. When actioning 'supporting families', families providing care in non-hospital settings received information about severe dementia from suitably prepared staff, plus contact details to access support. Family feedback was primarily positive. Reference to additional practice change frameworks and inclusion of specialist palliative care professionals are recommendations for future initiatives; also focusing on targeted, achievable goals over longer timeframes.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	Action research; Community of practice; Dementia; Evidence translation; Palliative care
Research Division:	Health Sciences
Research Group:	Health services and systems
Research Field:	Aged health care
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Provision of health and support services
Objective Field:	Palliative care
UTAS Author:	Andrews, S (Dr Sharon Andrews)
UTAS Author:	McInerney, F (Professor Fran McInerney)
UTAS Author:	Robinson, AL (Professor Andrew Robinson)
ID Code:	106018
Year Published:	2015
Web of Science® Times Cited:	1
Deposited By:	Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre
Deposited On:	2016-01-25
Last Modified:	2018-03-29
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