Caring for those who care for our older people

The importance of prioritising mental health in the healthcare sector, particularly among aged care nurses, cannot be overstated. Recent surveys have highlighted alarming statistics, revealing the widespread prevalence of burnout, depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation among this much-needed workforce.

Altaira are proud to partner with the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation (ANMF) SA Branch and Healthcare Heartbeat to address the mental health care needs and wellbeing of aged care nurses.

Being a newly graduated nurse in the aged care sector can be daunting. In some cases, it can lead to a quick burnout, exacerbating staff shortages within the sector.

In 2022, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Education Centre (ANMEC), a service of ANMF SA, teamed up with Skills SA in the Department of Education to make the transition experience of new aged care nurses a smoother one and to build confidence and capability in operational nursing practice.

The ANMF SA furthermore partnered with Altaira to improve the wellbeing of nurses entering the aged care workforce through a mental fitness program delivered by Healthcare Heartbeat.

Aged care nurses from Helping Hand took part in the ANMF SA’s Aged Care Transition Professional Program, which commenced in April 2024 and was run by ANMF Professional Officer, Jo Wagner. Throughout the program, the aged care nurses took part in a mental fitness/wellbeing session, which was delivered virtually by Healthcare Heartbeat facilitator, certified Organisational Development Consultant, Katheryn Curnow.

These mental fitness/wellbeing sessions were tailored for aged care nurses to use as a starting point to check in with their self-care and aim to better recognise signs of stress and ideally put strategies in place to prevent this from progressing to burnout. Practices explored were designed to be used in the moment and aim to support participants with expanding their strategies for how to effectively respond to challenging situations and interactions.

Participants explored cognitive techniques for enhanced focus, decision-making, and managing mental load, plus developed emotional intelligence to respond effectively, manage stress, and foster positivity. All whilst establishing habits to maintain momentum, bounce back from setbacks, and set healthy boundaries.

Altaira is an Australian owned and managed national labour hire and recruitment agency that provides experienced staffing solutions in Healthcare and Nursing Services, Allied Health Services and Hospitality Services for both short term and permanent placements. Established in 2008, they take pride in providing high clinical governance and delivering innovative solutions, working in partnership to drive positive outcomes for the industry and wider community.

Healthcare Heartbeat is a subsidiary of World Youth International, an Adelaide-based registered charity established in 1988, which has facilitated meaningful volunteer opportunities for more than 5,000 Australians and provided access to basic services such as healthcare and education for more than 40,000 people across the globe. At the heart of all their work is a commitment to community-led, sustainable development projects, and a belief in the power of volunteers to create real impact. Their vision is to educate, empower and inspire positive change within the global community.

World Youth International has worked with Australian healthcare professionals through their Nurses In Action programs since 2005, giving the charity a strong insight into the sector and the challenges that healthcare workers face daily.

Altaira’s collaboration with Healthcare Heartbeat, now in its third year, represents a commendable effort to address the root causes of burnout and psychological distress among aged care nurses. By providing tailored support and resources, wellbeing booster sessions, workbooks, and meal vouchers, this partnership aims to empower nurses to prioritise self-care and resilience.

Altaira Director Jelena Giro said Altaira was “committed to supporting nurses and all healthcare workers not only in their professional endeavours, but also in their overall wellbeing”. “Altaira’s holistic approach extends beyond business interests, encompassing a genuine concern for the mental health and welfare of our aged care workers,’’ Ms Giro said.

“Investing in the mental health of aged care nurses can contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce and ultimately enhance the quality of care provided to our ageing population – something Altaira is always at the forefront of. Our healthcare workers commit wholeheartedly to the welfare of others, often to the detriment of their health and family’s wellbeing. Together, through collaborative efforts such as this partnership, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future for aged care nurses.’’

This collaboration between ANMF SA, Altaira, and Helping Hand addresses the need to better equip registered nurses with the tools to prevent burnout and psychological distress, and it’s a program we are proud to deliver.’

If you would like to learn more about Altaira’s Mental Fitness Grants to Aged Care Nurses, please email engage@altaira.com.au