Social isolation in Residential Aged Care (RAC) is associated with depression, self-harm, cognitive decline and reduced physical health. Helping people to be socially connected is a growing priority. In this project the authors developed, implemented and evaluated a Social Connection Toolkit. The Toolkit aims to assist RAC staff to discuss with residents, the kinds of social connection activities that will best meet their preferences. 

Codesigned with RAC residents and staff, the Toolkit has: 

• e-learning modules about social connection; a conversation-style set of questions (‘Tool’); 
• a guide for use; and 
• a digital data collection interface. 

Once created, the Toolkit was implemented in four RAC facilities across New South Wales and Victoria. Impacts for residents, staff and organisations were evaluated. 

This project found wide recognition that better responses to resident social connection are needed, and there is an appetite for change. However, implementing the Toolkit raised considerable issues in terms of organisational readiness, as well as issues about the Toolkit. The findings are being used to inform enhanced RAC resident social connection.