Situating Eden-Culture change in residential aged care: A scoping review

Objective This review explored the knowledge of the Eden Alternative [Eden] as a well-being model for aged care and the current research of relationship-centred care in a residential setting to identify gaps in the literature. Methods The search commenced in July 2017 and was updated in January 2020. Eight electronic databases were systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies published in English between 2000 and 2020. The search revealed 13 papers for final inclusion. Results The Eden model has the potential to reduce loneliness, helplessness and boredom in older people. Implementation requires committed leadership and the inclusion of residents, families and staff in decision-making. Conclusions There remain gaps in the empirical evidence of the benefit of the Eden model. The challenge is for researchers to provide rigorous study design that can evidence well-being outcomes for residents with complex needs.