Aim: To answer questions on the essential components (services, operations and resources) of a person-centered aged care home (iHome) using computer simulation.
Materials & methods: iHome was developed with AnyLogic software using extant study data obtained from 60 Australian aged care homes, 900+ clients and 700+ aged care staff. Bayesian analysis of simulated trial data will determine the influence of different iHome characteristics on care service quality and client outcomes. Interim results: A person-centered aged care home (socio-cultural context) and care/lifestyle services (interactional environment) can produce positive outcomes for aged care clients (subjective experiences) in the simulated environment.
Conclusion: Further testing will define essential characteristics of a person-centered care home.
Keywords: aged care home; computer simulation; older people; person-centred; personhood; wellbeing.