Abstract

Many long-term care (LTC) residents are living with dementia and associated responsive behaviours. The Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) program was developed to enhance care for persons with responsive behaviours, but data on its implementation and outcomes in LTC are limited. This study aimed to strengthen our understanding of BSO's operation and potential benefits in LTC. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from external BSO members (n = 5), family caregivers (n = 4) and LTC staff (n = 16). Interviews revealed current challenges in LTC and possible future directions for the BSO program's success; a survey of 10 respondents obtained participant rankings of the perceived importance and performance of program outcomes. This evaluation identified success indicators of the BSO program, important model components and self-reported performance ratings for each of these outcomes in LTC. These findings may assist regions in developing, enhancing or evaluating similar behavioural and mental health support programs in LTC.